5 Ways To Stay Safe At Halloween During COVID-19

The COVID-19 Pandemic has managed to curtail several holidays this year, from St. Patrick’s Day to Labor Day. The next holiday is Halloween. Most people want to celebrate this child centered holiday. But can it be done safely during the pandemic? By following several guidelines people can still participate in Halloween and reduce the chance of contracting COVID-19.

1. Consider your local infection rate: Before attending Halloween celebrations or going treat-or-treating check your local infection rate for COVID-19. You can do this by going to your state’s health department website. If the infection rate is above 5%, you should consider staying at home and celebrating with your immediate family.
2. Assess your personal risk: Do you or any of your family members have underlying health conditions? People who are immune compromised, have diabetes, kidney disease, heart conditions, cancer , or obese are at a greater risk. If they contract COVID-19 they are more likely to become seriously ill and need hospitalization. It would be a good choice to stay at home and celebrate.
3. Trick-or-treating: Procedures for trick-or-treating need to be adjusted due to the pandemic. Do not set out a bowl on the porch for trick-or-treaters. Cross contamination could occur. Instead, place candies on a table with space between each candy. Consider placing treats into individual gift bags. Or, if you are handy, make a candy shoot.

When doing out to trick-or-treat, have your children wear a mask. A cloth mask with two layers should be used. If your child’s costume comes with a plastic mask an additional cloth must be used on the outside or inside of the mask. A plastic mask does not protect the user from respiratory droplets.

This year, have your children trick-or-treat as a family to reduce contact with people outside your bubble. When walking, make sure to maintain social distancing.

1. Halloween Parties: Ideally, Halloween parties should be cancelled this year. However, if you decide you want to continue your party tradition, consider making adjustments. Reduce the number of people attending the party. Practice social distancing and have attendees wear masks. Hold the party outside. Provide bottled drinks and individualized packaged foods.
2. Consider New Traditions: Finally, consider starting new Halloween traditions. Have a candy hunt and hide the candy inside your house or outside in your yard. Consider having a parade in your neighborhood. Have neighbors decorate wagons and bikes. Encourage everyone to dress up in costumes. Hold the parade in the afternoon so everyone can easily see the costumes. Schedule a family Halloween movie night. Make it more festive by making a special holiday meal. Check out these kid friendly recipes.

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