‘Tis the season for porch pirates.

 

But there are steps to help protect your purchases.  Package thefts are a growing problem, with more people shopping online.

 

"Some folks have estimated that around 250,000 package thefts occur every day in the United States," noted Kenton Brine, president of the Northwest Insurance Council.  "That's about $15 billion in losses over the past year alone."

 

Brine added the the way you buy things makes a difference as well.

 

"Use a credit card if you're buying online, a credit card or debit card that has purchase protection on it, so that if a package is lost or stolen you can get reimbursed by the lender, the bank or the credit card company that you used to purchase it," he said.

 

Homeowners and renters insurance will cover the loss, but only if it exceeds your deductible.  Brine added track your packages, and remove them as soon as possible after delivery.

 

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com 

More From PNW Ag Network