Police have issued advice to residents to prevent crime at Christmas.The advisory relating to potential issues in the home and while out and about suggests:l lock doors and windows when leaving the house, even for a few minutes;l ask a neighbour or family member to watch the house and collect any deliveries while you're away;l don't leave gifts on display through windows or doors;l watch out for criminals posing as couriers or charity workers calling at your door always ask for ID and only donate to recognised charities;l keep doors locked and windows closed when you are away from the car;l don't leave purchases in the seat of the car, but lock them in the trunk; don't approach the car alone if suspicious people are standing by;l avoid carrying large amounts of cash while shopping; pay by cheque, credit or debit card where possible;l use well lit ATMs and shield the keypad when entering the PIN.