Holiday homes under police watch

Homeowners can get their properties on a police surveillance route during August. Operation Tranquillité Vacances (Operation Peaceful Holidays) scheme is aimed at reducing break-ins.

The police will put your property on a list for routine patrols while you are on holiday. To qualify, you have to be away for longer than seven days. If the property in question is residential it must be completely vacant or closed if it is commercial premises.

You need to notify the police at least 48 hours ahead of your departure, either at your local police station or the Service d'Accueil, de Recherche et d'Investigation Judiciaire (SARIJ), open 24 hours a day, seven days a week or at the Unité de Police de Quartier (UPQ) open Monday to Friday, 09.00-20.00.

People living in very rural areas are encouraged to contact their local gendarmerie for advice. Anybody not going on holiday is urged to help protect neighbouring properties by reporting any signs of unusual activity and if witnessing a burglary to call the police (dial 17 free) and not attempt to confront burglars themselves.