Ensure Your Home's Safety with Harris County Constable Precinct 5 Vacation Watch
June 06 2024
Planning a summer getaway is exciting, but it's important not to overlook the safety of your home while you're away. Residents within Harris County Constable Precinct 5 Contracted Patrol Area can benefit from the Vacation Watch service to ensure their homes are protected during their absence.
What is the Vacation Watch Service?
The Vacation Watch service is designed to provide extra security to your home while you are away for more than a day. Deputies who patrol your area are notified to keep a closer eye on your property, deterring potential criminal activities and ensuring your peace of mind.
How to Submit a Vacation Watch Request
Submitting a Vacation Watch Request is straightforward. The quickest method is to fill out the online form available on the Precinct 5 website. If you prefer, you can contact the dispatch office and request a deputy to come to your residence to take the details in person.
For those unsure whether their residence falls within a Precinct 5 Contracted Patrol Area, contacting the dispatch office at 281-463-6666 will provide clarity and assistance. You can also view the Harris County Constable map here.
Importance of House Watch During Vacations
Leaving your home unattended increases the risk of burglary. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) highlights that homes without any form of security are significantly more likely to be targeted by burglars. Specific statistics reveal that:
- Homes without security measures are up to 300% more likely to be burglarized.
- A substantial portion of residential burglaries occur when homeowners are away for extended periods.
Having your house watched by law enforcement during your vacation significantly mitigates these risks, ensuring prompt response to any suspicious activity and maintaining the safety of your property.
Additional Home Security Tips
- Alarms: Notify your alarm company to list the Precinct 5 agency as the first contact in case of an alarm trigger. This ensures immediate law enforcement response.
- Lights: Use timers for indoor lights and dusk-to-dawn sensors for exterior lights. Consistently illuminated interiors and exteriors can signal that a home is occupied.
- Vehicles: Do not leave valuables in vehicles. If possible, have a neighbor park their car in your driveway to make the home look occupied.
- Pets: Ensure pets have updated ID tags with contact information. Arrange for a friend to watch your pets to prevent them from escaping.
- Visitors: Consider having a friend house-sit. This keeps the house occupied, takes care of pets, and maintains a lived-in appearance.
- Emergency Contact: Have a local emergency contact in case the authorities need to reach someone quickly.
Submission Timeline
To ensure that your Vacation Watch request is processed timely, submit it at least three days before your departure. If your departure is within three days, you can still submit the request online but also call the dispatch line at 281-463-6666 to expedite the process.
Using the Vacation Watch service of Harris County Constable Precinct 5 ensures your home remains secure, allowing you to enjoy your summer vacation without worry. Make the necessary arrangements today to safeguard your home and belongings.
By
Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News
|
|
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
|