Safety top of mind as Halloween approaches
Posted October 30, 2020 8:07 am.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) – Halloween is less than 24 hours away and health experts are reinforcing the need to be safe this year, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
While trick-or-treating isn’t cancelled in Alberta, health officials are asking parents and kids to be cautious when they are out.
The City of Calgary and the province’s top doctor have both stressed that this isn’t the year for a Halloween party, but if you’re going to do it anyways, limit it to a maximum of 15 people and try to only hang out with those in your bubble or cohort.
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“The more optional activities we are doing in crowded indoor spaces increases the risk of exposure,” said infectious disease expert Dr. Craig Jenne. “I think that’s just the unfortunate reality of it. If we can keep group small that’s better. If we can keep things outside, that’s even better.”
When it comes to costumes, Stuart Brideaux with EMS has some tips if you or your kid plans to dress up.
“We want to encourage everyone that’s wearing a costume when you are out trick-or-treating that you can absolutely incorporate all of your personal protective equipment within that costume. That includes the ability to wear a reusable cloth mask or medical mask.”
As for handing out candy and treats, there are some creative options the city has already recommended included using cardboard tubes or tongs.
“We are also encouraging physical distancing like any other event,” said Brideaux. “Do your best at all times to keep the six feet or two metres away from other people, particularly those that are not in your cohort.”
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Halloween celebrations in some parts of the country including Toronto and the Peel region of Ontario have been strongly discouraged for this year.
Earlier this month Canada’s chief public health officer, Dr. Theresa Tam, said that trick-or-treating could proceed as long as participants follow physical distancing and other safety protocols. She mentioned handing out treats on a hockey stick, or using pool noodles to separate kids from homeowners at their front doors.
-With files from The Canadian Press
