This is how you can protect your packages from porch pirates

The peak of holiday shopping is right around the corner and package thieves are also gearing up for it.

A Jacksonville man posted video of a stranger coming up to his house and walking off with a package. full of gifts.

Almost 26 million Americans had packages stolen during the holidays last year, according to a recent Safewise report.

Nearly one in every five homeowners has had a package stolen.

Kevin Davis said he shops online a lot. His Ring camera system alerts him right when a package is dropped off.

“If you get near the front door or the whole front porch it will set off the motion detector and start filming everything,” he said.

If you don’t have a surveillance system and you’re worried about having your packages delivered to your house, you have several options – including shipping them to your local UPS store or post office.

UPS says requiring a signature for delivery will prevent packages from being left on your doorstep if you’re not home. You can also ship them to where you work.

UPS’ My Choice program lets you choose the approximate time of delivery and you can give the delivery driver special instructions to deter thieves.

“I usually have them place it somewhere where they can’t find it,” Jeanne Hunt said.

If you’re shopping on Amazon, you can have your gifts delivered to an Amazon locker – they’re all over Jacksonville.

Cox Media Group