During the summertime, lots of people take vacations and go on trips and the Jefferson Police Department has some reminders to help better protect your home while you are gone.

Jefferson Police Chief Mark Clouse tells Raccoon Valley Radio that officers will do drive-bys to check on anyone’s property while they are gone on vacation, as part of the Summer Home Checklist. Clouse points out that homeowners need to submit information such as when they are gone, if any lights are supposed to be left on, and the names of individuals who are allowed to be on the property. He believes this program is worth it for people who want to use it.

“Oh it’s great. You know to be on vacation and the last thing you want to do is have your mind on home, so this is just another little extra thing that you can kind of relax on vacation and know that if there is an issue we know who to get ahold of and how to take care of it for you.” 

Clouse notes another tip to prevent people from being on your property while you are on a trip is waiting to post photos or talking about when you are leaving for a trip on social media.

“Believe it or not there probably are people out there that watch those and look for those things. ‘I’m in Aruba. I’m having a great time. I’ve got two weeks left here.’ Well, obviously this guy’s home is empty. So maybe all those postings could be done when you get home. I know it’s hard to do, I understand that. But just some ideas like that can really make a difference when you’re gone.”    

Clouse also advises homeowners to make arrangements with trusted neighbors, friends or other family members to check on their property as well, pick up any mail or packages that are delivered to the residence, because piled up mail is a red flag that you haven’t been home in a while.