Summer Vacation Watch

May 30, 2025

Summer has arrived, school is out, and many Grand Lakes MUD 1 residents are gearing up for well-deserved vacations. As you plan your getaway, don’t forget about the safety of your home! Residents of Grand Lakes Municipal Utility District 1 can take advantage of a fantastic, free service: vacation watches provided by the Fort Bend Constable Precinct 1.

What is a Vacation Watch?

While you’re away, officers from Fort Bend Constable Precinct 1 will keep an extra eye on your property, patrolling the area to help ensure your home stays safe and secure—all at no cost to you.

How to Request a Vacation Watch

Requesting this service is simple. Just fill out the vacation watch form here and provide important details about your home, such as:

  • Will any lights be left on?
  • Are there pets staying at the house?
  • Is there an alarm system, and will it be armed?
  • Have you authorized anyone to enter your home?
  • Will any vehicles remain parked at your residence?
  • Is there a secondary contact in case you can’t be reached?

If your plans change—such as new visitors, or changes to your departure or return dates—please update the Constable’s Office.

Home Security Tips While You’re Away

  • Notify your alarm company about your trip and list Fort Bend Constable Precinct 1 as your first contact. This can speed up law enforcement response if needed.
  • Use light timers instead of leaving lights on constantly, which can signal an empty house.
  • Leave a car in the driveway (with no valuables inside) to give the appearance that someone is home.
  • Arrange care for your pets—whether through a pet sitter, boarding facility, or trusted friend or family member. Make sure their ID tags, microchips, and vet records are up to date, and provide emergency contacts to your pet’s caretaker.
  • Consider a house sitter to help your home look lived-in.
  • Put your mail on hold with USPS Hold Mail to prevent overflow and keep your information secure. Learn more here.

If you found these tips helpful, your friends and neighbors might too! Spread the word by sharing this article on Facebook, X, or Nextdoor.