Vacation Watch

Herculaneum Police Department Vacation Watch Service

Planning a trip? The Herculaneum Police Department offers a free vacation watch service to residents of the City of Herculaneum. If you’ll be away from home for an extended period, you can request this service for added peace of mind.

When your home is registered for a vacation watch, patrol officers will periodically stop by to check on the property. Officers may walk around your home to look for signs of forced entry or damage. While this service does not guarantee your home will remain untouched, it provides an additional layer of security. We also encourage you to ask a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor to keep an eye on your home while you’re away.

Tips for Securing Your Home While on Vacation

Whether you live in an apartment or a large home, leaving for vacation can feel stressful. Protecting your home and belongings requires a mix of self-help measures and human oversight. The following tips can help ensure you return to your home exactly as you left it.

Vacation Crime Prevention

Many families get caught up in the excitement of a trip and forget to take basic security precautions. To avoid becoming a target for burglars, follow these crime prevention steps before leaving:

Before You Leave: Secure Your Home

✅ Lock all doors and windows – and double-check that they function properly.
✅ Make your home look lived in – avoid making it obvious that you’re away.
✅ Keep window coverings in their usual position – sudden changes can be a giveaway.
✅ Test and arm your smoke and burglar alarms – ensuring they work properly.
✅ Arrange for mail, newspaper, and package pickups – ask a neighbor or put deliveries on hold.
✅ Maintain your yard – an overgrown lawn or neglected driveway signals an empty home.
✅ Use timers for lights, TVs, or radios – to create the appearance of activity.
✅ Turn down or forward your phone ringer – to avoid tipping off intruders.
✅ Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway – or leave your own car in its usual spot.
✅ Store irreplaceable valuables in a safety deposit box – for extra security.

By taking these simple precautions, you can reduce the risk of burglary and enjoy your vacation with greater peace of mind.

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