A statement from Public Health officials says Halloween may look different this year in Chatham-Kent, but if done safely, can still be fun for your family.
“We need to be realistic and allow some normality while still following public health guidance this Halloween,” says Dr. David Colby, Medical Officer of Health. “COVID-19 does not hide or go away on holidays, and we as a community must remain vigilant.”
Public Health is asking C-K residents to consider the following recommendations before celebrating Halloween this year:
- Trick-or-treat outside with your household in your community only – Stay with your household while trick or treating, limit the number of houses you visit and stay within your neighbourhood to avoid large potential COVID-19 exposure.
- Trick-or-treat at a distance – While trick-or-treating with your household, ensure that you physically distance (2 metres) from others while collecting treats.
- Wear a face covering – Everyone who is trick-or-treating or handing out treats should wear a face covering. A costume mask is not designed to stop the spread of COVID-19, and may prevent you from being able to see or breathe. Consider building your face covering into your costume!
- Practice proper hand hygiene – Carry hand sanitizer while trick-or-treating, and wash your hands before going out and when coming home. If you are handing out treats, wash hands often!
- Use non-touch methods for handing out treats: Do not use self-serve candy bowls: consider using a fun, not touch delivery method for candy such as a slide, catapult, candy bags or tongs.
- Check treats before eating – Before eating or investigating your treats, have a trusted adult (who has washed their hands) inspect them first.
- Avoid parties and gatherings – Parties and gatherings have the potential to cause widespread exposure of COVID-19. Gathering maximums for all private parties are still 10 people indoors and 25 outdoors and come with scary fines if you exceed these limits!
- Do not trick-or-treat or hand out treats if you are unwell – If you feel unwell, do not go out to collect treats or hand out treats: keep your community safe!