Police urging homeowners to be watchful of package thieves during the holidays

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Authorities are warning people about porch pirates looking to steal packages right off your front steps.

Clovis Police officers said they typically see an increase in this type of crime after Thanksgiving. Last year, the department handled around 20 cases of stolen packages, most of which occurred during the months of November and December.

So, here's some tips on how to prevent this from happening to you.

"One of those things would be requesting a signature so that when the package is delivered someone will be home to sign for it," Cpl. Chris Berna with the Clovis Police Department said. "Another option would be to have special directions like have packages set behind a fence or so it's not out in open view."

A third suggestion is installing surveillance cameras and motion lights to help deter the thieves.