Fargo residents planning a winter getaway are being reminded that a few simple steps can keep their homes safe from break‑ins and costly damage while they’re away. Police Captain Travis Moser and local home‑maintenance specialists outlined practical measures that protect property and give peace of mind.

Trusted eyes on the property

Captain Moser stressed the importance of having a reliable neighbor, friend, or family member check on the house regularly. “Anything you can do to make it appear that somebody is still living in that home is always very beneficial,” he said. An untouched driveway often signals an empty house, so arranging for snow removal and visible activity can deter potential thieves.

Lighting and mail management

Timers for interior and exterior lights create the impression of occupancy. Collecting mail, newspapers, and packages prevents a pile‑up that would otherwise alert a burglar that no one is home. “Timers or lights and someone collecting the mail can also help,” Moser added.

Preparing the interior

Laney’s, a local home‑services provider, recommends unplugging small appliances that won’t be used, such as coffee makers, air fryers, and, when appropriate, refrigerators. However, some equipment should stay on. Business development manager Ty Rambousek explained, “The No. 1 thing with furnaces is I would always make sure that they’re running. Make sure your filters are changed, and just always keeping up with the maintenance on them to make sure they last those colder months when they’re gone.”

Rambousek also advises setting the thermostat to 70 °F while the home is vacant, ensuring pipes stay warm without excessive energy waste.

Outdoor plumbing precautions

Disconnecting outdoor garden hoses and securing the sump‑pump discharge hose are critical steps. “People always forget about that and they don’t have bypasses, and the snow comes, covers them up, sump pump tries to pump out the water, pumps against ice, and it just backs up their entire system,” Rambousek warned.

Emergency response and police support

If a trusted watcher notices anything unusual, Captain Moser instructed them to call 911 immediately. Fargo police also encourage homeowners to notify the department of upcoming absences so officers can provide extra patrol attention.

Residents of West Fargo have the option to enroll in the police department’s Vacation House Watch Program, a volunteer‑based effort that adds an extra layer of vigilance during holiday travel periods.

Key takeaways

• Arrange a trusted person to check on the home and handle snow removal.
• Use timers, lights, and mail collection to create the appearance of occupancy.
• Unplug nonessential appliances; keep furnaces running with fresh filters and set thermostats to 70 °F.
• Disconnect garden hoses and secure sump‑pump discharge lines.
• Notify Fargo police of travel plans and consider joining the Vacation House Watch Program.

By following these straightforward recommendations, Fargo homeowners can enjoy their winter vacations with confidence that their homes remain safe and well‑maintained.

Original reporting: InForum (Fargo section) — read the source article.