Halloween probably right behind Christmas for children’s favorite day of the year. After all, they get to dress up as spooky creatures or their favorite characters from TV shows or movies, and to collect bags of candy.

But every year hundreds of kids get hurt, sick or worse on the evening of Oct. 31, and there is nothing worse than ending up in the emergency room with your child when they should be out having fun.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of having your children’s Halloween spoiled by something unpleasant. Here are some Halloween safety tips:

Costume safety

Pick out or create a light-colored or bright costume that drivers can easily see. If your child wants to be dark and spooky, decorate the outside of their costume with strips of reflective tape (which you can find in most hardware stores). Make sure their treat bag is also brightly colored or trimmed in reflective tape.

Fire risk

Move jack-o’-lanterns away from curtains and other flammable material. Don’t leave a lit pumpkin unattended or let your children play near it.

Candy worries

While Halloween candy-tampering is uncommon, it’s a good idea for you to take a look at all your child’s treats.

Closely examine every piece of candy, and throw out ones that are unwrapped, have tears or pinholes on the wrapping, or look suspicious. Toss hand-wrapped cookies or fruit (unless you trust the giver).

Keep your kids near

If you’re trick-or-treating with more than three children, bring another parent along, just in case.

Hold your child’s hand, and stay on the sidewalks at all times. Ask children to remove masks before crossing a street, and keep an eye out for cars coming in and out of driveways. Carry a flashlight so you can see where you’re walking – and so drivers can see you.

Don’t wear costumes that are trip hazards

Have your children wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision and to help them avoid trips and falls.