Vacation Safety & Home Checks
We're here to help ensure your peace of mind when you're away. Use these easy tips, forms, and guidelines to help protect your home or business while you’re on vacation or traveling.
How the Carlton Police Department Can Help
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Vacation Checks
If you'll be gone for a while, the Carlton Police Department can check on your home or business. Complete a simple consent form, and an officer will reach out to you by phone.
How It Works
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Get the Consent Form
Download and fill out our “Vacation Check / Consent to Enter Residence” form below, or access our online webform at the following link. Vacation Check Request & Consent to Enter Private Residence | Carlton OR -
Submit It to Us
The paper form can be submitted to the Civic Center reception staff. Or, you can simply submit the web form online. Once we receive your completed form, an officer will follow up by phone to confirm details. -
During Your Absence
Our officers will perform checks at reasonable intervals, as resources allow, to make sure everything looks okay.
Vacation Safety Tips
Inside
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Set timers for indoor lights
This goes a long way in deterring burglars, who often look for crimes of opportunity. Don’t allow your house to appear as if no one is home. -
Unplug sensitive electronics or use surge protectors
Power surges can happen unexpectedly—disconnect the computer, TV, stereo, and other electronics, or plug them safely into a surge protector. -
Keep alarm systems on / notify your security company
If you have an automatic security system, call your representative to let them know you’ll be away. Ensure the alarm is set correctly before you leave. Many systems also offer remote monitoring via smartphone. -
Don’t post travel plans on social media
Even if you think only friends or colleagues can see your posts, it’s safest not to broadcast your absence online. -
Store valuables out of sight or in a safe place
Consider placing jewelry or other valuables in a safe deposit box. At minimum, keep items out of view from windows to avoid tempting burglars.
Outside & General
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Arrange for lawn/garden care and trim branches
Ask a neighbor or hire a service to maintain landscaping. Trim branches that could provide easy access to upper windows. -
Stop mail and newspaper deliveries
Suspend deliveries—or have a trusted neighbor collect them. Piled-up newspapers or mail signal that no one is home. -
Install lights or timers outdoors
Set exterior lights on timers to create the impression that someone is home during the evening. -
Remove hidden spare keys
Collect any spare keys from around the house. Burglars know the common hiding spots—like under mats or in potted plants. -
Secure garages, windows, doors, and all entry points
Double-check that all doors and windows are locked. Don’t forget garage entrances, which can still be a target for theft.
Share & Help Others Stay Safe
Knowing that our community looks out for one another helps us all. Share these tips with your neighbors or friends who might travel often or live alone. If you have questions or need help filling out the form, just let us know—we’re here.