For many children, Halloween is the most exciting night of the year. Wearing a costume and running around in the dark used to be the height of freedom and fun for children, not to mention getting candy.

Over the years, some of the activities have changed as safety concerns have arisen. The National Safety Council’s statistics have found children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Lack of visibility because of low lighting at night also plays a factor in these incidents.

The council suggests some steps to take to make sure the fun prevails.

• Choose a costume that is fire resistant and not too long to avoid tripping,

• Use reflective tape on costumes of children who will be out after dark. Glow sticks also help make children more visible after dark.

• Masks can obscure a child’s view, so consider using non-toxic Halloween makeup instead. Test the makeup on skin before applying to face. Remove all makeup before children go to bed.

• A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds. If older children are going alone, plan and review an acceptable route. Agree on a specific time children should return home.

• Teach children to never enter a stranger’s home or car and stay in well-lit, familiar areas with their friends.

• Require children to refrain from eating candy until they bring it home for inspection and to avoid triggering food allergies.

Drivers also can contribute to a safe Halloween by:

• Being alert to the presence of trick-or-treats in the road, on medians and on curbs.

• Entering and exiting driveways and alleys carefully.

• Watching for children in dark clothing.

• Discouraging inexperienced drivers from taking to the road on Halloween.

• Turning on headlights extra early to help spot children from a distance.

Halloween is a unique kind of fun. It’s up to everyone to make sure it stays safe.