PARENTS in East Lancashire have been urged to accompany their children when they are out ‘trick or treating’ this Hallowe’en.

North West Ambulance Service always sees a spike in 999 calls on October 31, which it believes could be avoided if the public followed some simple advice.

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It said children should wear ‘well-fitting masks’, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls, and should learn how to cross the road properly before setting off.

Face paints should be tested on a small area of skin first, to check for irritation, while burning candles or pumpkin lanterns should not be left unattended or near flammable materials.

Director of operations, Derek Cartwright, said: “Halloween can be an exciting time for children and young people but combined with the dark nights, children can be vulnerable to avoidable accidents.

“Emergency calls to the ambulance service soar at this time of year. We are urging parents to ensure their children are safe so they can enjoy the night and ambulances are free to attend life-threatening emergencies.

“People should think before they dial 999 about whether they really need an ambulance. More appropriate treatment could be available at a minor injuries unit, walk in centre, GP or Pharmacy.”