12/17/2025
Great info!
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents planning to travel over the holidays to keep their homes safe by utilizing the free Citizen Observer Patrol’s Vacation Watch and Security Training at Residence programs.
Through the Vacation Watch program, Flagler County residents can receive up to 20 house-watch checks per year. During these checks, trained members of the FCSO C.O.P. perform a complete exterior inspection of the home, checking for anything unusual, including unauthorized vehicles in the driveway, signs of forced entry, and suspicious people or activity on or near the property.
C.O.P. members do not touch doors, windows, or locks to avoid potential accidental activations of alarm systems.
If they encounter suspicious or criminal activity, such as evidence of a break-in, C.O.P. members will immediately notify law enforcement so that a deputy can be dispatched to the home.
Residents may request service online by visiting bit.ly/flagler-vacation or in-person at FCSO’s District 2 Office located at 14 Palm Harbor Village Way in Palm Coast. Requests should be submitted five days prior to the start of the requested watch dates to ensure there is scheduling time for guaranteed service.
Residents may request coverage for a single day or multiple checks over the course of several months. No matter the duration, C.O.P. members utilize scheduling software to ensure that visits are spread evenly during the period residents are away. Service is active Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., excluding holidays.
When submitting a request, residents should indicate whether they have anticipated activity at their home, such as lawn care or pool cleaning services or a neighbor set to pick up mail. If a C.O.P. member observes activity that might be legitimate but was not noted when signing up for the program, they will contact the resident to verify whether it was authorized.
If residents return home earlier than planned, they must notify the District 2 Office by calling 386-586-2621 so their home can be removed from active watch status.
“The Vacation Watch program is a great preventative measure to give our residents a little more peace of mind when they travel,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “Although we cannot guarantee the safety of your home or guarantee no damage while you’re way, having your house checked on regularly reduces the likelihood that it becomes the target of criminal activity.”
Residents are also encouraged to obtain a free comprehensive home security assessment through the STAR program. During the assessment, a C.O.P. member will walk the property to assess security features such as door and window locks, exterior lighting, and even whether shrubbery and landscaping offer criminals potential hiding spots. Residents can learn about their home’s general vulnerability to burglary or trespassing and receive recommendations to harden their homes and reduce the chance of being targeted by criminals.
“Both of these programs are made possible due to the tremendous efforts of our volunteer C.O.P. members, who really go above and beyond to give back to our community,” Sheriff Staly added. “I encourage everyone planning to travel to utilize either or both of these services so a Grinch doesn’t ruin your holiday! We wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season and new year.”
The Vacation Watch Program and the STAR Program are free to all Flagler County residents.
