Halloween is right around the corner and you might be asking yourself "Is it safe to take my child trick or treating?".  While there are no "100% Covid -proof" answers there are many tips available to help keep you and your family safe this Halloween.

Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the director of the Center for Disease Control has some advice that can help you keep your little ones safe as they trick or treat this year.  Dr. Walensky states that when considering celebrations for Halloween you should probably avoid Halloween parties, unless you choose to hold a party with just the family members who live in your home.  If you decide that you want to include others who do not live in your home remember "outdoors is better".  Social distancing as always is key, if you are choosing to include family members or  people who do not live in your home.

If you do choose to take your child out trick or treating there are some guidelines to help you there as well.  First be sure you and your children wear masks.  The masks  included when you purchase a costume are not enough to protect your child.  Have your child wear their face mask and then their "costume" mask over the face mask.  Or better yet, if you like, use face paint to paint their face and then put on their face mask.  When you trick or treat, do so in a small group. Continue to stay 6 feet away from people who do not live in your home. Remember hand sanitizer is your friend! Sanitize whenever you have a doubt or concern that your child has touched something not from your home.  Be sure to bring extra masks and sanitizer just in case. And finally, be vigilant!  Children should not be eating any candy until they get back home.

If you are a "treat giver" there is some advice for you as well.  Be sure to wear your mask and gloves.  If possible, pass out treats outside your house, sit on your porch, or your stoop to pass out candy.  Give trick or treaters pre-packaged candy or candy bars only.  If possible use a set of tongs to put the candy in their bags as this limits direct contact with the kids.

And lastly, as always, when you get home the first thing everyone should do is wash their hands thoroughly before they dive into the candy haul.

Here is to a healthy, and safe Holiday season!