With summer almost here, the Board of Directors for Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 167 (the "District") would like to remind residents that they have access to free vacation watch services through the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
While you're away enjoying your vacation, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office will patrol your neighborhood and keep a watchful eye on your home at no cost to you.
How to Request a Vacation Watch
Residents of Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 167 can complete the online form to request a vacation watch by clicking here (you will need to complete this form on a desktop). When requesting the service, please provide the following details about your home:
- Lights: Will you leave any lights on?
- Pets: Are there pets staying in the home?
- Alarm System: Do you have an alarm system, and if so, will it be armed?
- Authorized Visitors: Have you authorized anyone to enter your home while you’re away?
- Vehicles: Are any vehicles parked at your home?
- Emergency Contact: Is there a secondary contact we can reach in case we are unable to reach you?
Please update Harris County Sheriff’s Office if there are any changes, such as additional people coming to your home or changes to your travel dates.
Tips to Keep Your Home Safe While You’re Away
- Alert Your Alarm Company: If you have an alarm system, inform your alarm company of your absence and make sure they list the Harris County Sheriff’s Office as the primary contact in case of alarm activation. This will help save valuable time.
- Use Timers for Lights: Avoid leaving lights on continuously, as this is a clear sign no one is home. Instead, use timers to turn lights on and off at random intervals.
- Leave a Car in the Driveway: Park a car in the driveway with no valuables inside. This will make your home look occupied.
- Pet Care: Arrange for someone to take care of your pets—whether through a trusted neighbor, a pet sitter, or a boarding facility. Make sure their ID tags, collars, and microchip information are up to date, and provide your pet’s medical details and emergency contacts to the person caring for them.
- House Sitting: If possible, consider hiring a trusted house sitter to ensure your home doesn’t appear empty.
- Mail Hold: Place your mail on hold with the USPS. This will keep your confidential mail safe until your return. Learn more about USPS Hold Mail.
- Emergency Contacts: Leave an emergency contact with the Constable’s Office in case you cannot be reached.
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