Notify local police of the departure and return dates of your trip and provide the name and telephone number of a neighbor or relative to notify in the event of an emergency.                                                                                                         

Place a “vacation hold” on newspaper subscriptions, mail delivery and include the start and ending dates.

Ask a neighbor to pick up newspapers and mail if the “vacation hold” was not followed.  Ask them to remove throwaway papers and circulars from the doorway and mailbox.

Put interior lights and a radio on a timer in order to give the appearence that someone is home.

Have front exterior lights on photocells installed that activate in the evening and shut off at daybreak.

Notify neighbors of your absence and encourage them to contact the police regarding any suspicious activity at your home.

Arrange to have the grass cut and watered, leaves raked and the sidewalk and driveway shoveled during the winter. 

Remove all tools, lawn implements, garbage cans and yard furniture to the garage, basement or shed..

Unplug all non-essential electrical appliances such as computers, fans, televisions, irons, washer and dryers to avoid damage from electrical storms.

Be sure the sump pump is functioning properly and free from debris to avoid basement flooding

Set the home thermostat at a reasonable temperature. 85 degrees in the summer and 50 degrees in the winter

Make sure all entry points into the home are secure.

Close the fireplace flue to prevent birds and animals from entering.

If you have an alarm system, leave a current list of contacts with the alarm company in case of system activations.  False alarms may be fined. 

Dissconnect the remote garage door opener receiver.

Be sure all vehicles left at home are locked and remove all valuables.

Please continue to check this website for updates in regard to this issue. The Holbrook Police Department is dedicated to assuring your safety and well-being. We are better able to accomplish our mission with your help!