Sheriff’s vacant house program uses eyes and ears of many to
combat crime. 

[view:node_ad=5]The Sheriff’s department has to be creative in these
economic times to fight crime.

That creativity has lead the Sheriff’s department to develop
a new program to help property owners with their vacant properties. 

The Vacant House Check program is designed to use deputies,
volunteers on patrol, and reserve deputies to randomly check vacant properties
to detour crime and other activities that may further drive down the value of
the property. 

"In an effort to best protect our residents we must
continuously evaluate current events and unique challenges affecting our
communities," said Captain Anthony La Berge of the Santa Clarita Sheriff's
Station.  "We are excited about this new program and
look forward to
yet another way we can stay closely connected to the residents and
neighborhoods we serve."  

Owners and neighbors can enlist the help of the program by
filling out a form on the Sheriff’s website.

Sheriff’s are also asking for the help of neighborhoods to
watch out for suspicious activity in vacant properties. 

In addition to the program the SCV Sheriffs have also
provided property owners with tips to help keep your property safe:

• Have good locks on the doors, garages, windows, and
  gates.  Use them and check them regularly. 
• Empty swimming pools, Jacuzzis, and ponds. 
  Provide fencing around them.   
• Keep the lawn mowed and other shrubs trimmed and
  watered.  
• Leave random interior and exterior lighting on by
  using timers when possible.
• Replace broken windows.
• Try to make sure the house appears "Lived
  in."
• Frequently pick up mail, packages, newspapers,
  and trash. 
• Place alarm or Neighborhood Watch signs in the yard
  or stickers on the windows.  "Beware of Dog" signs can also
  be helpful.   
• Leave
  emergency contact numbers for property owners, managers or Realtors in an
  accessible place or give them to a trustworthy nearby neighbor.