Bob Beach, chief of Longwood University's top-ranked police department, has been making a list for the holidays – but it doesn't include a giant flat-screen TV or other gift ideas.

Chief Beach's list is full of tips to help keep other people's holiday dreams from turning into a holiday nightmare: finding their homes ransacked and gifts and other property stolen.

“Most homes are extremely vulnerable to burglaries during the December holidays,” said Beach. “Keeping your home safe from thieves during the holidays requires following just a few basic safety measures.”

Lock all doors and windows. Check the lock to make sure it is properly secured. Notify a trustworthy neighbor if you will be away from your home for an extended period of time. Ask this person to report any suspicious activity while you are away.

Stop all mail service and newspaper delivery. Do not leave electronic goods and gadgets such as cameras, CDs, DVDs, and computers within view. Install an automatic timer for one or two lights inside the house.

“It is my hope that everyone has a safe and happy holiday season. Traveling home to visit with loved ones and friends should be a wonderful time,” said Chief Beach. “What a shame it would be to return after the holidays to find your home burglarized. I am urging everyone to follow these few simple precautions that will greatly reduce that possibility.”

For the third consecutive year, Longwood University's Police Department is ranked among the top 500 security programs in the nation, according to Security Magazine. Longwood is ranked 17th out of the 31 schools in the education/university category and is the only university police department from Virginia that is recognized.