Limatunes Ive said this before but it bears repeating at this time of the year when shipping packages are expected to arrive: 1) Know your delivery men, what they look like, the vehicles they commonly drive and their uniforms. 2) If it doesnt have to be signed for most delivery men will drop it and leave after a quick knock or ring of the bell. If necessary, specify this in special instructions on delivery websites. If someone is trying to deliver something ask through the door, Does it need to be signed for? If the answer is no, tell them to put it down and leave. 3) If they say it needs a signature, ask who it is from and who it is addressed to. If its a legitimate delivery that you were not expecting (from a friend or relative) there will be a legitimate address and return address that you should recognize. 4) If a signature is needed, have a means to assess the situation before opening the door (window, peep hole, etc). Most signatures are taken electronically by major carriers these days so a man with a clipboard would be highly suspect. 5) If your doorway has blind spots (bushes, corners) ask the deliver man to go to an alternate location (a garage door or back door) and then watch for communication to possible cohorts or their movement. 6) Stay vigilant and if something tells you the situation is not right, trust your gut and tell the delivery man to leave and come back at a later time. Even if you have to say, That person isnt available to sign for the package at this time. 7) If/when you do open the door, have a decent pair of shoes or boots beside the door you can slip on before opening it and if you dont have a door stop (something to consider getting) wedge your booted foot behind the door to keep it from being kicked or pushed in your face. It may or may not stop them from getting in but it very well may stop them from breaking your face with the door and buy you a second or two. 8) Dont underestimate the power of, Sorry, can you back up? I dont want my dog to see you and try to attack. Rush out the door and close it behind you. 9) Stay safe.
Posted on: Sat, 30 Nov 2013 22:18:32 +0000