Summer is here, the kids are out of school and for many residents this means traveling for summer vacation.
As a resident of Harris County Utility District No. 16 (HCUD 16) you have access to free vacation watches from Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Residents can request a vacation watch at no cost. While away from your residence, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office will patrol the area and keep a watchful eye on your home.
Please leave detailed information about your home such as:
- Will you be leaving any lights on in the home?
- Do you have any pets staying in the home?
- Is there an alarm system and if so, will it be armed?
- Have you authorized anyone to come into your home?
- Are you leaving any vehicles at your home?
- Is there a secondary contact we can reach out to in case we are unable to reach you?
How to request a vacation watch
To request a vacation watch from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, click here to fill out a vacation watch form.
Please remember to update the Harris County Sheriff’s Office of any changes such as additional people coming to your residence or changes in date of departure or return.
Tips for the home while you’re away:
Inform the alarm company of your departure and make the Harris County Sheriff’s Office the first contact while you are away from home, as this will save valuable time in getting law enforcement to your residence.
Have lights on timers, as having lights on around the clock is a sign no one is home.
Leave a parked car in the driveway with no valuables inside.
Make arrangements for your pets, whether it be someone coming to your home to walk and feed them, a boarding facility, or having them stay with a trusted family member or friend. Make sure your pet’s information such as ID tags, collars, and microchips are up to date and give a list of emergency contact information about your pet such as preferred veterinarian, updated shot records, and other medical information with the authorized person(s) watching your pet.
Finding a trusted person to house sit is one of the best ways to avoid your home looking empty.
Find an emergency contact that can be called in case you cannot be reached.
Put your mail on hold with USPS Hold Mail. This will keep your confidential information in a safe place till you return (for up to 30 days). https://faq.usps.com/s/article/USPS-Hold-Mail-The-Basics
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