The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have released guidelines on how to participate in Halloween celebrations safely. According to the CDC, traditional trick-or-treating, where treats are handed to children who go door-to-door, is considered a high-risk activity. This is because it involves close contact with others who may have the virus. However, there are ways to make trick-or-treating safer.
One option is to have a costume parade or a socially distanced candy hunt in the backyard. This is a good alternative for parents who are concerned about their children’s safety but still want to have some Halloween fun. Another option is to organize a drive-through trick-or-treat event, where candy is distributed to children from a safe distance.
If you decide to participate in traditional trick-or-treating, there are ways to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the virus. The CDC recommends that everyone wear a mask while trick-or-treating. This means that Halloween masks should not be substituted for cloth masks as they do not provide adequate protection.
To avoid clustering at the door, homeowners can consider placing a table or a sign outside their house to indicate where the treats are. This helps reduce the need for children to approach the door and come into close contact with others. Additionally, treat-givers should wash their hands frequently and wear gloves when handing out candy.
Parents should encourage their children to avoid touching their face, mouth, or eyes while trick-or-treating. After returning home, they should also wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
Trick-or-treating can be a fun and safe activity if everyone takes the necessary precautions. However, it’s important to understand that the risk of contracting COVID-19 is still present, especially in areas with high cases. Therefore, it’s important to follow the guidelines set by health authorities to keep ourselves and our communities safe.
In conclusion, this Halloween may look different than previous years, but that doesn’t mean that trick-or-treating has to be canceled altogether. By following the guidelines set by health authorities and being creative, we can still enjoy this fun and spooky tradition while staying safe during these challenging times. Happy Halloween!