PARENTS in Bolton are being urged to follow a few simple tips in order to ensure that Halloween is a safe and spooky treat for their children this year.

The North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) has reported that traditionally, emergency 999 calls rise on Halloween or "Mischief Night" as it is known.

The service believes that this rise in incidents could be avoided if the public was prepared to follow simple safety advice.

NWAS is urging parents to ensure they always accompany children when they are trick or treating, to make sure youngste carry a torch or glow stick and wear reflective clothing to make them visible to drivers.

Basses say masks, costumes and shoes should be well-fitting and should be worn to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.

Children should also be taught how to cross the road properly as more accidents happen in the dark.

Face paints should also be tested on a small area of skin first to check for irritation or allergies.

Parents are also asked to remember not to leave burning candles or pumpkin lanterns unattended or near flammable materials.

Director of operations at NWAS, 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, a walk in centre, their GP or a pharmacy.”

NWAS has asked anyone who needs advice on choosing the correct NHS service for them to avoid calling Ghostbusters this Halloween and instead dial 111 for free advice.