Strathcona County RCMP is investigating an increase in mail thefts around the area.
Police say that they have noticed a large number of incidents involving small parcels and cards being stolen from rural community mailboxes in the county.
Constable Chantelle Kelly wants residents to take extra precautions to make sure they don't become victims this holiday season.
"During the holiday season, this type of theft sometimes spikes as thieves hope to find Christmas cards with cheques or cash in them”, said Kelly. “We are urging people to check their mail every day to lessen the risk of losing important pieces of mail.”
Other precautions that residents can take are:
- Picking up mail shortly after delivery. Avoid leaving it in a mailbox overnight
- If you are away from home, make sure someone else is checking your mail. Canada Post will hold mail at the delivery office for a small fee and deliver it when you return.
- Make sure there are no gaps or damage to your mailbox.
- If you do see a damaged or overturned mailbox, report it to Canada Post by calling 1-866-607-6301.
- Avoid sending valuable items, such as cash and cheques in the mail.
If you believe that you have become a victim of mail theft or have noticed any suspicious vehicles or people hanging around mailboxes, contact Strathcona County RCMP at 780-467-7741 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
More information on mailbox security can be found on Canada Post's website here.