Mailboxes are an important part of daily mail delivery. They come in all shapes and sizes. Mailboxes should be spotted easily by the carriers as they are delivering. If a carrier cannot find the box easily, they will return the mail back to the Post Office. Here are some tips to help ensure you receive daily accurate delivery.

1. Mailboxes should not be hidden so that the carrier cannot find it. Do not hide boxes in bushes or other yard decorations. Again if the carrier cannot find it easily, the mail will be returned to the Post Office.

2. If your box is on the side of your house, put your address on the box so the carrier knows for sure that they are at the correct address. Carriers are given a certain amount of time to deliver to each address, they do not have time to walk around houses looking for mailboxes and addresses.

3. There should be absolutely no boxes at ground level!! This is a serious safety issue. Many carriers strain their backs bending over with a weighted bag. It is very easy for the mailbag to shift and cause injury. A carrier is not obligated to deliver to a box that is not properly mounted at a height that is both safe and secure. Keep in mind that a carrier has one free hand with which to pull together your mail, open the mailbox, insert the mail, and grab any outgoing mail that is in the box.

4. Mailboxes should be around 4 to 5 feet off the ground to ensure safe delivery by the carrier.

5. Maintenance of your mailbox is also very important. If your mailbox is rusted out please have them replaced. This can easily injure a carrier.

6. Please prevent putting plants, chairs, or any other items in front of your mailbox. This creates an opportunity for injury. If the carrier has to reach unnecessarily over the top of items, this easily causes back strains. A carrier should be able to stand directly in front of your mailbox without any obstacles present.

7. Size does matter! If you have a home business and receive quite a bit of mail, then your box should be big enough to hold that amount. It is very difficult for a carrier to fold a lot of mail with one hand, then try and stuff it into a box that is too small. Please make that your box size is sufficient for the amount of mail you receive. Also keep in mind, if you are video renters, they do not fit into small boxes!

The Post Office recommends the best place to put your mailbox is on the side of your house with the address on the box. There are a few reasons for this. First of all it insures accurate delivery. Secondly, the carrier is safer. Finally, you won't have to worry about mail delivery in the winter time. The carrier will easily be able to get to your box and you won't have to worry about clearing your steps and porches daily.

The Post Office realizes that Lakewood has a lot of rental property. If you receive mail at a Lakewood address, whether your rent or own, it is your responsibility to ensure that the mailboxes are up to standard.

These are the best suggestions to help ensure your mail is delivered daily and that your carrier is safe.

As always we welcome comments and suggestions,

Your Lakewood Safety Committee