Police are warning the public not to extend the season of giving to burglars who will be after some Christmas gifts of their own.

Crime Prevention Unit head Det. Sgt. Alex MacDonald made the warning after several opportunistic breaking and enterings which saw houses raided while the owners were out for just a short while.

On Monday, a burglar stole $250 cash from a home in Ocean Sands Drive, Warwick between 7 p.m. and 7.15 p.m.

Det. Sgt. MacDonald said burglars only needed five or ten minutes to ransack a house and make off with the valuables while the owner is out Christmas shopping.

He said: "Housebreakers are after some Christmas gifts of their own."

Householders need to lock up their homes even while out for the briefest of journeys.

Burglars approach homes and knock on doors to check they are empty and then pounce said Det. Sgt. MacDonald.

Extra window locks costing a couple of dollars each from hardware stores can also shore up homes and even allow windows to be left slightly ajar without residents risking losing valuable possessions.

Homeowners heading off the island for the seasonal break need to make sure they haven't made it obvious they have gone by leaving notes on the door or messages on their answering machines.

"Bermuda is a small community, sometimes housebreaking is done by a family member. Not all families are in the family Christmas spirit."

Other festive crime prevention tips include those for businesses.

They are warned to look out for counterfeit currency amid the increased numbers of banknotes being passed and for businesses booming with Christmas sales to avoid having a vast build up of cash takings.

Bank deposits should be frequent but done at varying times.

Other tips include:

Not walking down the street with recognisable bank bags

Avoiding short cuts through dimly lit streets

Not taking money home.

People enjoying the party season are also urged to keep an eye on their drinks and not accept them from strangers. Busy bars make it easier for pickpockets and purse thieves to lurk so revellers are advised to keep belongings close.

Avoiding rides from strangers is also advised while drunks also make an easy target for muggers, warn Police.