Small changes to routines, lighting, and deliveries can reduce the odds you’ll be targeted

THUNDER BAY — With reports of thefts from backyards and packages disappearing from front steps continuing in recent months, residents across Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario are looking for practical ways to protect their homes without turning daily life into a full-time security project.

Many people are taking to social media posting videos and images of people in their yards apparently stealing things. This can help raise awareness, but it can also put the person at potential risk from retaliation. Remember both the “good guys” and the “bad guys” have access to social media.

Crime prevention specialists often stress the same point: most property crime is opportunistic. The goal is to make your home a harder, riskier, and less rewarding target—using a few simple, affordable steps.

Start with the basics: Make it harder to approach unseen

Improve visibility

• Keep front and back entrances well-lit, especially paths to doors, gates, and driveways.

• Use motion-sensor lights at key access points (rear door, side gate, garage, shed).

• Trim shrubs and trees so windows, doors, and porches are visible from the street and neighbours.

Create “layers”

• Close and latch gates; add a simple gate latch or lock where appropriate.

• Use fencing and clear boundaries so it’s obvious when someone is entering private space.

Secure the backyard: Sheds, garages, and “easy grab” items

Backyard thefts often involve items that can be grabbed quickly and resold.

Lock and reinforce

• Add sturdy padlocks to sheds and garage side doors.

• Consider hinge and hasp upgrades—many sheds have weak hardware that can be forced.

Reduce temptation

• Put away bikes, tools, propane tanks, ladders, and patio furniture cushions when not in use.

• Don’t leave ladders accessible—ladders can be used to reach upper windows or yards.

Mark valuables

• Record serial numbers for bikes, tools, and electronics.

• Use a discreet engraver or permanent marker to mark items with an identifier (helpful for recovery).

Porch pirates: Make deliveries less “stealable”

Package thefts often happen within minutes of a delivery.

Change how you receive packages

• Use delivery instructions (back door, side door, hidden from street—only if it’s safe and accessible).

• Choose hold-for-pickup options at depots, partner locations, or parcel lockers when available.

• Ship to work (if permitted) or a trusted friend/family member.

Add a secure drop option

• Consider a lockable parcel box or a locked, covered bin with clear delivery instructions.

• If you live in an apartment, ask about secure parcel rooms or concierge options.

Tighten timing

• If possible, schedule deliveries for days you’re home, and set delivery notifications so packages aren’t left outside for long.

Use smart security without overcomplicating it

You don’t need a full system to improve security.

Cameras and doorbells

• A visible doorbell camera or exterior camera can deter theft and help document incidents.

• Place cameras to capture faces and approach routes, not just a wide shot of the yard.

Alarms and sensors

• Simple door/window sensors and a loud alarm can reduce “easy entry” attempts.

• Even fake signage can help, but real lighting and locks matter more.

Neighbours matter: Community awareness helps

• Join or start a neighbourhood group chat for suspicious activity and delivery pickups.

• If you’re away, ask a neighbour to collect flyers and packages to avoid the “nobody’s home” look.

• Watch for patterns: repeated foot traffic, vehicles circling, or people checking porches.

What to do if you’re hit

• Report thefts to police with as many details as possible: time window, descriptions, direction of travel, video clips, serial numbers.

• If you have video, save the original file and note the date/time.

• Avoid confrontation—focus on documentation and reporting.

A quick home safety checklist

• Motion lighting front/back ✅

• Shed/garage locks upgraded ✅

• Valuables stored out of sight ✅

• Delivery plan (lockbox/hold pickup/alerts) ✅

• Cameras positioned effectively ✅

• Serial numbers recorded ✅

Keeping safer often comes down to making theft inconvenient. A few upgrades—especially lighting, locks, and delivery routines—can go a long way.