For decades there have been posters on the walls of school buildings telling children the importance of Halloween safety.
Helpful tips, such as always carrying a flashlight, never going to strangers homes, paying attention to traffic and inspecting all candy prior to eating it, are etched in the minds of most trick-or-treat revelers.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues in 2020, with multiple states reporting their largest increase of new cases ever this week, it’s important to add a few bullet points to the helpful Halloween poster.
First, wear a mask. This sounds easy because many children out and about for the holiday will be wearing a mask as part of their costume. If a costume doesn’t include a mask, be sure to wear some kind of face covering.
Second, don’t linger. Socially distancing can be tough, especially for children, but the best way to make sure large groups don’t end up congregating is to keep moving. Whether you are meandering around to a few homes of friends and relatives, or spending the evening at the outdoor trunk or treat and movie showing at the Highlands Performing Arts Center, it’s best to stay six feet apart and keep groups from forming.
The “Ghostly Garden” at the Highlands Biological Station will also be a popular attraction Friday and Saturday. The outdoor space affords plenty of space for social distancing.
Lastly, wash hands whenever the facilities are available. Most parents have gotten into the habit of having hand sanitizer on the ready, and trick-or-treating presents the perfect opportunity to use it.
Halloween festivities on Main Street, which traditionally draw thousands of partygoers each year, have been cancelled. But that does not mean that Halloween itself has been cancelled, and there will almost certainly be people out and about for the holiday.
Taking the proper precautions will help ensure that the 2020 version of Halloween is remembered for its differences, but hopefully not for spreading COVID-19.