The last few years have been rather strange – and this year is no different.
We are no longer under the strict lockdowns of the past several months – but neither are we back to hanging out in groups without any worry at all.
Instead, this year appears to be a hybrid of sorts where many people are choosing to stay at home and celebrate with fun family-style activities. If you are one of those folks interested in some great stay-at-home options, check out our article that is chock full of fun ideas: How to Celebrate Halloween at Home
Meanwhile, others are just starting to head out and want to return to traditional Halloween fun, like trick-or-treating and handing out candies to passerby.
Well, those of you that are ready to wander out into the night and face the adorable spooky ghosts and goblins, are in luck. In a recent interview, the Director of the CDC, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, gave the green light for kids to go trick-or-treating this year. She made it clear, that with some precautions, this long-time Halloween favorite could remain safe and fun.
If you are planning on hitting the streets this Halloween, here are some ways that you can stay healthy and safe:
Head outdoors – Avoid tight crowded locations full of people.
Stay in small groups – rather than traveling with a large pack.
Approach doors with only a few people at a time – avoid those bottlenecks that happen when many kids are waiting for the best candy.
Social distance as much as possible.
Wear masks if possible (and I don’t mean your costume mask) – Fortunately, there are many great options available today with everything from spooky prints to reactive lighting.
Take only wrapped candies – some baked goods may be delicious, but it is a much safer option to stick with unopened store-bought treats.
Use hand sanitizer frequently – especially after contact with others.
Handwashing when you can – without a doubt this is the most effective action you can take for any type of infection control.
Stay home if you are not feeling well or have any symptoms whatsoever – I know this one seems logical, but it is so important that it bears being included in this list.
But what if you prefer to stay home handing out treats?
What are some ways you can protect yourself as you pass out candies to dozens of little pretty princesses, rambling rock-stars, and creepy goblins?
Always offer pre-packaged candy – This is easier for you and safer for them.
Provide individually prepared grab & go baggies – This prevents many tiny hands from rummaging through a big bowl.
Pass out the treats yourself – or designate 1 person at home to pass out the candy. This will minimize how many people the kids come in contact with and reduces risk of exposure.
Frequent use of hand sanitizer or handwashing.
Finally, you can get creative – Last year’s isolation helped foster cute and imaginative alternatives such as candy slides, candy cannons, and candy catapults. This keeps everyone safer while adding an element of surprise and fun. If you do decide to create something like this, please send me pictures! I would love to share them with our readers and friends.
Whether you choose to go out trick-or-treating or stay home with family to enjoy the experience of passing out candy, the most important things to remember are