Well, here we are–right around the corner from Halloween 2020. The scariest time of a very scary year.
Needless to say, concerns are still running rampant over the best way to celebrate the year-end holidays. The COVID-19 pandemic has placed all public gatherings in a whole new (and frightening) light.
So, what about Halloween? It’s supposed to be spooky, sure–but this scary? As with so many issues in this world turned upside-down, the Centers for Disease Control may offer the voice of reason for trick-or-treating in this brave, new world. For children (and horror fans) of all ages.
To start with–and to the surprise of no one–the CDC is advising against traditional door-to-door candy grabbing. Children traveling in groups with people outside their households–and then going from one house to another–could easily spread the virus.
The CDC suggests “one-way trick-or-treating”–where people leave wrapped candies at the ends of driveways–may be the safe way to go. Also, organizing scavenger hunts to find Halloween-themed gifts may be a smart alternative. And be sure to stay at least six feet away from each other. Also, remember to wipe off all candy wrappers with soap and water when you get home, or let the candy sit in a safe place for 24 to 72 hours (good luck with that!).
Other hints to help keep everyone safe this weekend include: always wear a mask (but don’t wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask, making it difficult to breathe. Instead, wear a Halloween-themed cloth mask); avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters; pass out the treats outdoors; and wash your hands before handling the treats.
In addition to the goodie-gathering aspect of Halloween, the CDC also suggests some reasonably safe activities for the day. For instance, hold a small outdoor, open-air costume parade (with everyone staying six feet apart); go to an open-air, walk-through haunted forest; visit pumpkin patches (where the workers use hand sanitizers); hold an outdoor Halloween movie night with local friends and family members; or enjoy a virtual costume contest on Zoom or Facebook.
And, of course, keep reading Horror News Network for more details on everything Halloween this year. Have a boo-tiful weekend!
