Billings homeowners now have a free, volunteer‑based service to watch over their residences while they travel for the holidays. The Vacation House Check program, launched by the Billings Police Department three weeks ago, pairs volunteers with homeowners who are away for five to 90 days.
How the program works
Volunteers walk the exterior of a participating home once or twice each week, looking for signs of trouble such as broken windows, open gates or unfamiliar vehicles in the driveway. If anything appears out of the ordinary, the volunteer contacts the homeowner first to verify whether the situation is expected.
“We could come by one day, see an extra car, and ask, ‘Why is that there?’” volunteer Doug Peterson told MTN. “We also call the homeowner first and say, ‘Is this supposed to be this way?’”
When a homeowner and volunteer agree that a potential issue exists, the volunteer promptly notifies Billings police, ensuring a rapid response if needed.
Community response
Volunteer Terry Struck highlighted the program’s value for families who leave Montana for extended periods. “It gives people a little more peace of mind when they’re gone for a week or longer,” Struck said. He expects enrollment to rise as many residents travel south for the winter months.
“We have tons of people that go south for the winter, and a lot of them I know,” Struck added. “I always thought this should have been something that started years ago.”
Eligibility and sign‑up details
To qualify, homeowners must own a house within the city limits of Billings – apartments are not eligible. The vacation period must be between five and 90 days, and applicants are asked to submit their request at least one week before departure.
Interested residents can access the application form through the Billings Police Department’s website. The program is entirely free of charge, relying on the dedication of local volunteers who wish to support their neighbors.
Why the program matters
Winter travel is a longstanding tradition for many Billings families, and vacant homes can become targets for vandalism or theft. By providing a visible, community‑driven presence, the Vacation House Check program helps deter criminal activity and reassures homeowners that their property is being cared for.
The initiative also reflects Billings’ broader commitment to volunteerism and neighborhood safety, aligning with the city’s emphasis on strong families and responsible citizenship.
Looking ahead
As the program gains traction, the police department plans to expand volunteer recruitment and explore additional services, such as interior checks for longer stays. For now, the focus remains on delivering reliable, free exterior monitoring that lets Billings residents enjoy their vacations without worrying about their homes.
Original reporting: KTVQ Q2 Billings (local) — read the source article.
