It is based on ideals of honoring ancestors, maintaining relationships with the spirits and divining personal destiny. Many worshippers practice Santeria without adverse effects on themselves or others. Its animal sacrifice is extensive, using birds and sometimes dogs, in addition to goats and chickens. Sacrifice is an almost universal phenomenon in the history of religion whereby something is given to the gods and becomes holy. Persons offering sacrifices expect to receive some physical or spiritual good, establishing a fellowship between the giver and the recipient.
Sacrifices can include food, drink, tobacco, and human beings.
Do not enter perimeter of occult crime until advised to do so. Do not enter the ritual circle until the area is secure. Look for painted rocks, symmetrically placed rocks, bones, feathers, or symbols that would indicate traps. Do not touch any substance at a ritual site without wearing gloves. Poison is often used during ritual ceremonies.