LINCOLN. Neb.-- The Lincoln Police Department is warning residents to be watchful of their mail amid a rise in mail thefts. 

LPD says over the past two months, they have noticed an increase in reported thefts of mail from mailboxes. According to police, these crimes occur when the red 'flag' is raised indicating that mail is left inside. 

According to police, from January to February of this year there were 32 reported mail thefts LPD said the five-year average from 2017 to 2021 is 8. 

Investigators are urging homeowners to stay vigilant about their mail, especially when mailing credit cards, checks or cash.