Free vacation checks offered by Sheriff's Dept.

FALLBROOK – Going away on a summer break? An empty house is a tempting target for burglars. Residents can prevent their vacation from being ruined by a crime. They can sign up for free vacation checks with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.

The Sheriff’s Department offers free vacation checks year-round. Residents just need to let them know when they’re leaving and Sheriff's Senior Volunteers will perform security inspections outside the home Monday through Friday. They will check to see if the doors, windows and garage are locked. They will also hide newspapers and packages in the side fence or back patio.

If they see anything suspicious, they will call for the assistance of a deputy who will determine if there’s been a break in. Upon the residents' return, they will receive a welcome home letter listing the dates their home was checked and observations made during the visits.

Residents can take advantage of this free service by completing a form on www.sdsheriff.net. Just look for the "Vacation Home Checks" box on the homepage. There's a link to a form online which must be submitted in person at the Fallbrook Substation, 388 E. Alvarado St.