One night very soon, a colorful swarm of monsters, ghosts, pumpkins and superheroes is likely to be canvassing your neighborhood in search of tricks or treats.

Halloween falls on a Saturday night this year, and that changes the dynamics for all who partake in the fun.

This year, children may not only stay out later; they’re also likely to share the roads with a greater number of distracted teenagers and adults who are traveling to parties and other festivities.

The risk of pedestrian fatalities dramatically increases for young children on any Halloween night, but Halloween on a weekend poses even greater risks. A few precautions can help keep even the smallest goblins safe and happy.

Costumes

You want your child to see and be seen. Choose a costume that fits well and doesn’t obstruct their view. Face masks can be tempting for kids, but they can block a child’s vision, especially on streets that aren’t well-lit.

“Masks can be a problem,” says Patrick Mularoni, M.D., a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida. “A child may try on a mask under the fluorescent lights in a store and see OK, but when they’re out trick-or-treating in the dark, they really can’t see enough to stay safe.”

Consider face paint instead of a mask. Also, choose a flame-resistant costume that fits well, without long hems or capes or oversized shoes. Kids get excited and run from house to house, so they can easily trip over a costume if they’re distracted. Make sure any props they have are soft and flexible, not sharp or hard. Think about your child being able to safely and easily walk at least a mile in their costume.

Make sure your little one is visible. Give them a fun flashlight or a glow stick to carry with them. You can also add reflective tape and accessories to what they’re wearing.

There is a new “scare” to consider this year — the viral, mosquito-borne illness known as Dengue fever. Light-colored costumes that cover arms and legs offer better protection, as well as EPA-approved mosquito repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Safe Streets

The streets will be unpredictable, so talk with your teen drivers who are going to parties or picking up friends about scanning the road and taking it extra slow. Tell them to expect surprises, such as distracting lawn décor or trick-or-treaters darting out between parked cars. Teen drivers may be navigating unfamiliar streets, or they may be tempted to talk with friends or use their phones. Sharing a game plan and setting the tone before the night begins can help everyone to stay safe.

Young children should always have a parent or guardian with them on Halloween night. Before the evening gets started, talk to younger children about staying on the sidewalks and remind them of the rules for safely crossing streets.

Those at home who are handing out candy can help prevent any unfortunate skinned knees or spilled candy.

“Make sure there is a clear path for a child to get to your door safely,” Mularoni says. Check to see that your area is clear of debris and that there is nothing a child can trip over.”

The “Main Event”

On Halloween, the candy is the star of the show. Often, children will want to begin eating the candy as they collect it. Consider keeping a few pieces in your pocket that you know are safe for your child to enjoy while they’re out and about. Bring all of the collected candy home to thoroughly inspect it before allowing a child to partake.

Check for tears or holes, unusual packaging, loose wrapping, strange smells or discoloration.

Only keep homemade treats if they come from a trusted friend.

With a few precautions, a spooky night can be filled with nothing but sweet memories.

And if you’re lucky … lots of chocolate.