Parents can ensure their children are kept safe this Halloween with a few simple tips according to the East of England Ambulance Service.

Now that the cold dark nights have finally drawn in and the weather conditions are changing, a few simple tips may prevent an unnecessary journey to the local accident and emergency department.

This Halloween, the East of England Ambulance Service are urging parents to make sure they always accompany their children when they are trick or treating, to make sure children are carrying a torch at all times and that they always wear reflective clothing.

Children should not cut across gardens and driveways as there could be hidden dangers, to try to stay close to home and streets that are known, to remember to use the Green Cross Code and stick to the pavements.

Gary Sanderson, spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service, said: "As you can imagine the night will be full of excitement and the children may be vulnerable and prone to accidents whilst out trick or treating.

"We want everyone to enjoy the night as much as we will be."