By 1808Delaware
For many Delaware County residents, especially those living in rural areas, heading out of town can come with an extra concern: leaving a home, outbuilding, driveway, or property sitting unattended for days at a time. The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents that help is available through its free Vacation House Check service, which allows deputies to periodically check properties while homeowners are away.
The service is designed to provide an added measure of security and reassurance during vacations, business travel, family visits, or other extended absences. As patrol activity and call volume allow, deputies will check the listed property to help ensure that everything appears secure.
A Simple Step Before Leaving Town
Residents can request a house check by submitting an online form through the Sheriff’s Office website at: https://sheriff.co.delaware.oh.us/sheriff-house-check/ Requests may also be made by calling the Sheriff’s Office at 740-833-2800.
The form asks residents to provide key information, including travel dates, emergency contact details, names of anyone who has permission to access the home, and vehicle information. Those details help deputies understand what should and should not appear normal while the homeowner is gone.
For rural residents, that information can be especially useful. A vehicle in the driveway, a contractor stopping by, or a family member checking animals or property may be expected, but deputies need that context before deciding whether something looks out of place.
Extra Security Still Matters
The house check program is not a substitute for basic home security, but it can be part of a broader plan. The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to take additional steps before leaving, starting with making sure all doors, windows, garages, and outbuildings are secured. Sliding doors and windows can be reinforced with dowel rods or extra locking devices.
A monitored home security system can also serve as a deterrent and provide immediate alerts if unauthorized entry is detected. For homes located farther from nearby neighbors, that kind of notification can be particularly valuable.
Make The House Look Lived In
Lighting can also make a difference. Timers on indoor and outdoor lights can help create the appearance that someone is home. Varying the times when lights turn on and off can make the pattern look more natural. Residents should also avoid obvious signs of absence. Mail, packages, newspapers, and trash cans left out for extended periods can all signal that a home is empty. Trusted neighbors can play an important role. Letting them know about travel plans gives them a chance to watch for unusual activity, collect mail, move trash cans, or report anything suspicious.
Peace Of Mind Before The Trip
The Vacation House Check service gives Delaware County residents a practical way to involve law enforcement before they leave rather than waiting until something goes wrong.
For homeowners in more rural parts of the county, where properties may be spread out and activity is easier to miss, that added attention can be especially reassuring. Before locking the door and heading out, residents are encouraged to complete the form, share accurate contact information, and take a few common-sense precautions around the property. A little preparation can make coming home feel a lot easier.
