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Summer Safety Tip of the Week: Home Vacation Checks

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Date: Jun 08 , 2023
Category: News & Announcements

As we dive into the sun-soaked days of summer, it's important to prioritize safety and keep our community secure. Through out summer, we will be sharing some valuable summer safety tips to ensure a fun and peaceful season!

Summer is a popular time of year to travel. This year, we anticipate many families leaving their homes behind. If you're traveling this Holiday, be sure to prepare your home for optimum safety while you’re away. The San Diego County Sheriff's Department offers free home vacation checks year-round. Simply sign up for this free service and the Sheriff’s Department Senior Volunteer Patrol will keep a watchful eye on your home while you are away!

What is a Home Vacation Check?

Home Vacation Checks are periodic security checks on your home while you are away. The check will include a walkthrough of the home's exterior check for: 

  • Security of windows and doors
  • Safety concerns
  • Property damage
  • Evidence of vandalism or intruders

If any issues are found, the owner and/or emergency contact will be notified, and an appropriate response determined. 

Who Will Check on my Home?

The Sheriff’s Department Senior Volunteer Patrol from the North Coast Station Division will check the security of your home.

These Senior Volunteer Patrol are trained by and supplement the San Diego County Sheriff's Department in performing community service functions.

What Should I do Before I Leave?

Take these recommended actions before your trip: 

  • Lock all doors and windows. Use dowel rods to secure sliding doors and windows.
  • Consider leaving an internal light and external lights on to deter criminals. If possible, use timers to schedule them to come on.
  • Provide an emergency contact with a key. 
  • Cancel services such as housekeepers who might unknowingly access your home. List all gardeners, pet caregivers, pool services or others who may access the property on the Home Vacation Check Form.
  • Pull in all trash containers from the curb.
  • Limit/stop package deliveries that may be placed at your front door. 

When Should I Submit a Home Vacation Check Form?

Vacation House Checks should be submitted at least two weeks prior to your departure date. 

Contact your Sheriff's Station if your departure or return dates change. 

The Home Vacation Check request is only valid for the dates you submit. You will need to submit a separate Vacation House Check request for each planned outage. 

How Do I Apply?

To take advantage of this service, complete and return the Home Vacation Check form to your nearest Sheriff's Station or Substation or call your local station or substation here.