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Fear and Halloween go hand in hand. A scary movie on Halloween night is hard to resist, and kids dressed as ghosts and goblins often enjoy scaring their parents and friends while out trick-or-treating.

One scare no child or parents wants to experience on Halloween is anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic response that often produces a host of symptoms. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, anaphylaxis often involves swelling, hives and lowered blood pressure. In severe cases, anaphylaxis may involve shock, which can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Fun typically takes center stage each Halloween, but parents concerned by the potential for severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis can take measures to safeguard youngsters so trick-or-treating does not turn tragic.

• Ask about food allergies prior to hosting a Halloween party. Parents hosting a kids’ party this Halloween can ask other parents if children who plan to attend have any food allergies. If so, ensure such foods are not present at the party. The AAAAI notes that Halloween treats often include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, and eggs, each of which are common food allergens. Parents can even encourage guests to bring their own kid-specific treats and discourage youngsters from sharing to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

• Shift the focus from food. The AAAAI recommends Halloween hosts plan food-free Halloween activities. In lieu of trick-or-treating, host a costume contest, games around the neighborhood and pumpkin decorating (for young children) or carving (for older kids).

• Accompany kids with food allergies if they go trick-or-treating. Much of the fun kids have on Halloween involves trick-or-treating throughout their neighborhood. Parents of youngsters with food allergies can still let kids trick-or-treat, but the AAAAI recommends moms and dads go with their youngsters. Doing so can reduce the chances that kids will sneak a piece of candy that could trigger an allergic reaction. The AAAAI also advises parents to carry autoinjectable epinephrine with them while kids are trick-or-treating.

• Be cautious of “fun size” candy. The AAAAI notes that candy labeled as “fun size,” which are popular items to give out on Halloween, often contain different ingredients than regular size packages. Make sure kids don’t eat fun size candies until you have had a chance to confirm their ingredients.