With summer just days away, many Fulshear residents are preparing for vacations and family road trips. While coordinating travel itineraries is always top of mind, ensuring home security during an extended absence is equally important.

For those living within the city limits, the Fulshear Police Department’s House Watch Program offers a complimentary service designed to provide extra peace of mind. Under this program, local officers conduct periodic exterior checks of eligible residences while homeowners are away, ensuring a quick point of contact if an issue arises.

How the Fulshear Police Department Vacation Watch Program Works

During a registered absence, the Fulshear Police Department officers perform periodic perimeter checks of the property. If any irregularities are found, the department uses the provided emergency details to contact the homeowner or a designated local keyholder.

Residents planning to utilize this service should be aware of the following guidelines:

• Eligibility: The service is strictly available to residential properties located within Fulshear city limits.

• Time Constraints: House watch requests are limited to a maximum of two (2) consecutive weeks per quarter(every three months).

• Property Status: Requests cannot be accepted for homes that are currently listed for sale, rent, or lease.

• Occupancy Rule: To maintain safety and clear liability, watches are only approved for residences that will remain entirely vacant. The program cannot be used if a house sitter, relative, or service provider will be accessing the property.

• Operational Conditions: Checks are conducted as workload and staffing levels allow; specific dates or times cannot be guaranteed. Additionally, the service is automatically suspended during natural disasters, such as hurricanes or severe flooding.

How to Register

Registration should be completed prior to departure. The request form is available directly on the official city website:

Fulshear Police Vacation Watch Registration Form

5 Essential Tips to Secure a Home Before Traveling

While the Fulshear Police Department provides an excellent layer of oversight, effective home security relies on a proactive approach. Homeowners can further protect their properties by taking these five practical steps before leaving:

1. Create the Illusion of Occupancy

An obviously empty house attracts unwanted attention. Utilizing smart home automation or simple timers to activate indoor and outdoor lights at irregular intervals helps simulate a normal daily routine. Additionally, homeowners should pause mail delivery or arrange for a neighbor to collect packages, flyers, and newspapers so they do not accumulate.

2. Double-Check All Entry Points

In the rush of departure, small details can be overlooked. Homeowners should verify that all windows, deadbolts, sliding doors, garage entryways, and pet doors are securely locked. It is also recommended to test the security alarm system and notify the monitoring provider of the upcoming travel dates.

3. Exercise Caution on Social Media

Broadcasting travel plans online alerts the public that a home is vacant. It is safest to avoid posting departure countdowns, real-time location check-ins, or itineraries on public platforms. Sharing vacation photos and stories is best reserved for after the return home.

4. Eliminate Intruders' Cover

Overgrown landscaping provides convenient hiding spots. Keeping hedges, bushes, and trees trimmed away from windows and doors increases visibility from the street. Homeowners should also lock side gates and secure valuables—such as bicycles, grills, and yard tools—inside a garage or shed.

5. Coordinate with Trusted Neighbors

Leaning on the local community is one of the most effective security measures available. Informing a trusted neighbor of the travel dates ensures an extra set of eyes on the property. Providing them with emergency contact details allows for quick communication in the event of an unexpected situation, such as a storm or a broken water pipe.

By combining these proactive security measures with the Fulshear Police Department’s House Watch service, residents can travel with confidence, knowing their homes and community remain well-monitored.

Don’t leave your home unprotected while on vacation—take advantage of this free security service and follow these essential home safety tips to deter burglars and safeguard your property!

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.