If you’re planning to travel for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any part of the holiday season, don’t forget to take advantage of the free residence-watch services available to residents of Mission Bend MUD 1. Depending on your address, you may use the Vacation Watch service from either the Harris County Precinct 5 Constable’s Office or the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office.
While you’re away, deputies or constables will keep an extra eye on your home to help provide peace of mind—all at no cost to you.
How to Request a Watch
For Harris County/Precinct 5 Residents
- If you live in the contract patrol area for Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 5, you may submit a Vacation Watch request whenever you'll be away for more than a day.
- The quickest method: fill out the online form on the Precinct 5 website. https://constablepct5.com/vacation-watch/
- If you prefer, contact their 24-hour dispatch at (281) 463-6666 to submit the request.
- Please submit your request at least 3 days before your departure to ensure adequate notification.
- If you’re within 3 days of departure, you may still submit online, but call dispatch to expedite.
For Fort Bend County Residents
- If your home in Mission Bend MUD 1 falls under Fort Bend County’s jurisdiction (rather than Harris), use the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office’s Vacation / House Watch service.
- Fill out the online form via Fort Bend County’s HouseWatch web portal.
https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/sheriff-s-office/programs/vacation-house-watch - Note: In Fort Bend County, the service is typically for residences being away two days or longer, and there are maximum-duration constraints.
Tips for Keeping Your Home Safe While You're Away
- Notify Your Alarm Company: If you have an alarm system, let them know you’ll be away and make the applicable agency (Precinct 5 or Fort Bend Sheriff’s) the first contact in case of an alarm. (Precinct 5 recommends this specifically.)
- Use Light Timers: Set indoor and/or exterior lights on timers to give the appearance someone is home.
- Leave a Car in the Driveway: A parked car can help indicate occupancy—just ensure it’s locked and there are no valuables visible.
- Arrange Pet Care or Instructions: If you leave pets at home, provide a sitter or facility, clear instructions, and emergency contacts.
- Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Check In: Mail piling up or uncollected trash can signal an empty home.
- Hold Your Mail or Package Deliveries: Especially during the holidays, a full mailbox signals absence.
- Provide a Backup Contact: Leave a local contact with the law-enforcement agency in case you cannot be reached.
Contact Information
Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 5
Dispatch: (281) 463-6666
Admin: (832) 927-6700
Address: 17423 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77094
Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office (Vacation/House Watch Program)
Non-Emergencies: (281) 341-4665 Fort Bend County
Emergencies: Dial 9-1-1