Halloween is one of the favorite holidays of children all across the country. But while it may seem like all candy and pumpkins to them, parents have the duty of keeping everyone safe while trick or treating. Fortunately, it can be pretty easy if you take just a few precautions.

1. Stay with your kids. No matter how old they are, kids should never go trick or treating alone. Unfortunately, there are people out there with bad intentions who will take advantage of Halloween to disguise themselves. Parents should stay with little children at all times, especially as they go up to homes while trick or treating. Older kids will often want to go out together in groups, which is fun and perfectly fine. However, an appropriate number of adults should always be around to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

2. Make a plan. Make the most of your Halloween festivities by having a plan. Know where you will take your children trick or treating so you can plan accordingly. Some neighborhoods or public events will only have trick or treating during specific times. You also don’t want to be in a rush while driving that evening, since some roads may be closed and neighborhoods will be full of costume-clad children.

3. Glow in the dark. Literally. Have your children carry around a flashlight while they are trick or treating, and put reflective tape on their candy bags and costumes. It is important to do everything possible to make it easier for drivers to see your children as they are walking around.

4. Inspect your Halloween costumes. Avoid costumes and accessories that may make it difficult for your children to see everything around them, especially at night. Face paint tends to be safer than masks that may obstruct vision. Also be aware of costumes that have material that may drape or drag. If necessary, simply remove excessive material to prevent your child from tripping or getting caught on Halloween decorations at the homes they visit.

5. Drive carefully. The roads will be full of parents taking their children out, and neighborhoods will be packed with trick or treaters. Drive slowly, buckle up and keep an eye out for wandering kids.

6. Check your child’s candy basket before they dig in. The rule of thumb is that kids should only eat factory-wrapped candy that they receive on Halloween. Throw out any unwrapped treats or homemade goods, especially those from homes you don’t know personally. While many have good intentions with these treats, it is not worth the risk, since you can’t be sure of the exact ingredients.

7. Be extra diligent if your child has a food allergy. Go through any candy collected on Halloween very carefully, and throw out anything you have the slightest doubt about. Additionally, it is smart to carry about an EpiPen while trick or treating, just in case your child gets a little too excited and eats a treat that they are not supposed to have.

By following these simple tips, you can make your Halloween a safe and fun evening!