Police warning after increase of thieves targeting parcels left in 'safe areas' of homes

Officers say that with our movements being restricted, more of us are turning to online companies and delivery firms to bring goods to our doorstep.

But there can be issues, especially for those who live in homes with a shared communal reception area or hallway.

Paul Denison, a crime prevention officer for West Yorkshire, said; "The big delivery companies like Amazon, Hermes, Yodel, Parcelforce and Royal Mail will have their own policies in relation to deliveries through the COVID 19 outbreak.

"The drivers must ensure their own safety and the safety of others first and foremost but must also have consideration for the safe delivery of those products they are delivering.

"Whilst West Yorkshire Police will pass on any advice to the couriers we deem appropriate, we will encourage home owners to follow advice on how to protect their delivered goods."

• Do ensure all communal external doors are locked and not propped open.

• Challenge people who are wanting access.

• Maintain communal areas

• If there is an option to leave a telephone number and to receive a text once delivery has been then do so.

• Try and obtain a short time slot – not always available with some companies

• Ask landlords to assist with secure internal storage areas, the Police will approve those that are ‘Secured by Design’ accredited.

• Be vigilant and look out for each other.

A message from Gavin Murray, Deputy Editor

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you.