Fall is always a fun time of year. The beautiful weather, colors and smells spark plenty of excitement, but the most well-known fall holiday is Halloween.

Sure, it’s always fun to get a scare, hopefully followed by a good laugh instead of tears, injury or spontaneous combustion. And then there’s the other appeal—those horror movies you whip out every autumn. After all, it wouldn’t be Halloween without them, right?

But there are rules that shouldn’t be broken. Have you ever found yourself huddled under your blankets, in (what you think is) the comfort of the dark, watching a horror movie that you know is going to take a turn for the worst? Unspoken guidelines have your best interest in mind. Follow them this fall, should you find yourself in a horror movie situation, and you might survive.

Don’t shout out.

If you’re in a sketchy situation, what would make you think it’s okay to shout and ask if someone is there? Characters that do that often turn around and see someone invading their personal space, and usually don’t live to tell the story.

Do be observant.

The best way to survive the situation is to be alert and aware of your surroundings. Chances are, if you know what’s going on around you, you’ll be able to plan accordingly.

Don’t split up.

If you happen to be in a group, stay together. Don’t risk all of your lives by trying to find whatever it is that’s out there. Doing so will only allow the monster/zombie/ghost/you name it to start picking you all off, one by one. Staying together is your best shot, as there is safety in numbers.

Do check the back seat.

Before you make your great escape like the smart character you are, make sure no one is in the back seat or trunk of your car. Otherwise, you think you’re getting away from the problem, but in reality you’re just taking the problem with you.

Don’t be the hero.

Many protagonists try and seek out the source of trouble and overcome it. The idea that you could be a hero and save the day is ridiculous, and you’re going to get yourself in huge trouble if you don’t bail out right away.

Do use common sense.

The best way to avoid this horror situation is to refuse to engage in it in the first place. If you think you’re in a dangerous situation or there might be chainsaw zombies behind that squeaky door, don’t pursue them! Put that brain of yours to good use, and ask yourself if you really want to be involved.

Do double knot your shoes.

The last thing you’ll want is to be on your way out of the situation, about to make a clean getaway, only to trip on your untied laces and be doomed to your death. Tie those laces up well.

Following these guidelines during Halloween could mean the difference between survival and disaster. Make sure you know what to do in a horror movie situation, and most importantly, when to bail.