Franklin County Sheriff’s Office to increase home security checks during Thanksgiving travel

The Brief

• Franklin County Sheriff’s Office can add homes to a house-check list for residents traveling during Thanksgiving week

• Deputies warn that holiday travel creates opportunities for break-ins, especially when people share travel plans on social media

• The sheriff’s office recommends leaving lights on, notifying neighbors, and having trusted contacts check homes while away

PASCO — The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is increasing home security efforts as residents prepare for Thanksgiving travel, offering to add homes to a house-check list to help protect properties while families are away.

Deputies say holiday travel seasons create prime opportunities for break-ins, particularly when residents share their travel plans or vacation photos on social media platforms.

The sheriff’s office can add homes to its house-check list for residents who will be away for extended periods. Deputies swing by during both day and night hours, monitoring homes to ensure everything appears normal.

“Sometimes folks pay attention to your social media and they see that you’re not home,” said Monty Huber with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.

Law enforcement officials emphasize that making homes appear occupied is crucial during busy travel seasons. Simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a target for burglars who often scout neighborhoods for signs of vacant properties.

The sheriff’s office recommends several security measures for travelers. Residents should leave lights on to create the appearance of occupancy, notify trusted neighbors about their travel plans, and arrange for someone reliable to periodically check on their property.

Deputies stress the importance of being mindful about social media activity during travel. Posting real-time vacation photos or announcing travel plans online can inadvertently alert potential criminals that homes are unoccupied.

The house-check list allows deputies to include participating homes in their patrol routes, providing an extra layer of security during vulnerable periods. Officers look for signs of forced entry, unusual activity, or anything that appears out of place around the property.

For residents planning to travel during the Thanksgiving holiday, the sheriff’s office encourages contacting their office to request being added to the house-check list. This provides peace of mind for travelers while contributing to overall neighborhood security.

The initiative reflects the sheriff’s office’s proactive approach to crime prevention during peak travel times, when many homes sit empty and vulnerable to opportunistic criminals.