Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Living Well

Mailbox theft is a rapidly growing problem. Take steps to protect your family business papers. Here are some tips which may save you from being a victim.

Never send cash through the mail; send a check or money order.

Make sure your mailbox is in good condition to prevent the mail from being exposed to theft as well as bad weather.

If you do not receive an expected check or other valuable mail, contact the issuing agency immediately.

Collect your incoming mail as soon as possible after it is delivered. If you cannot be there, ask someone you trust to do it for you.

Ask the post office to hold your mail if you will be absent from home for a few days.

Buy a mailbox with a lock. They are available at most hardware stores or home improvement centers.

Consider collective or "cluster" mailboxes in your community; the security will be well worth the initial cost and can be divided among the residents in your neighborhood.

Do not put mail in the outgoing slot, even in your locked mailbox. The raised flag is an invitation to theft. Rather, take your mail to the post office or hand the mail to the letter carrier.

If you move, notify the post office immediately, as well as the people you do business with. If possible make the change a day or two before you move to make sure the change is effective.

Start a Neighborhood Watch program. You can then exchange work and vacation schedules and everyone can be involved in watching out for one another.

For more information on money management, contact the Nevada County Extension office at 887-2818.