Navigating Halloween Amidst COVID-19: Secure Celebrations

As the summer hues yield to the autumn colors, the excitement for Halloween begins to build. The delightful thrill of costumes, candies, and the crisp outdoor air, all lend a unique charm to this festive occasion. However, amidst the backdrop of COVID-19, prioritizing safety measures has become paramount to ensure an enjoyable, yet secure, celebration. This year's Halloween may be different, but with meticulous planning and adherence to the recommended guidelines, it's possible to create a fun-filled and safe experience for everyone.

Ensuring Safe Trick-or-Treating

Halloween traditions often entail activities that can potentially increase the risk of spreading the virus, as warned by health officials. In case you decide to partake in trick-or-treating, careful preparation is crucial. Keep in mind that wearing a mask, maintaining social distance, and avoiding large gatherings are still the most effective safety measures.

Here are a few pointers to ensure a safe trick-or-treating experience:

Mask Up: A Halloween mask, typically composed of thin materials with plenty of air gaps, is no replacement for a proper cloth mask. If a costume mask is worn, ensure it consists of at least two breathable fabric layers that adequately cover the mouth and nose without leaving any gaps. For children, instead of layering a costume mask over a protective one—which can potentially obstruct their breathing—consider incorporating the mask into their costume. Costume inspirations could range from medical staff to cowboys, ninjas, and more. Please note, masks are not recommended for children under the age of two.

Practice Cleanliness: Despite the low risk of virus transmission via Halloween candy, it's crucial to maintain hand hygiene. Carry hand sanitizer and use it after any contact with people or objects. On returning home, ensure children wash their hands, and the collected candies are disinfected before consumption. Use a sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol for effective protection against the virus.

Maintain Social Distancing: The chances of contracting or spreading the virus escalate when in close contact with others. Aim to keep at least six feet distance from those not from your household while out collecting candies. If you're distributing treats, consider setting up an outdoor station with individual candy bags for children to pick up, and don't forget to sanitize your hands before handling the treats.

Alternative Celebrations

If you prefer a safer alternative to trick-or-treating, here are some ideas to ensure your young ones still enjoy a memorable Halloween:

Virtual Celebrations: For maximum safety, consider hosting a virtual costume contest or movie night. This allows for social interaction while minimizing any potential risks.

Trunk-or-Treat: These events allow for trick-or-treating in open-air spaces, reducing potential risks. Decorate your vehicle and draw chalk lines around it to promote social distancing.

Curbside Candy Pickup: Set out individually wrapped candy bags by the roadside for families to collect, either on foot or from their vehicles.

Reverse Trick-or-Treat: Let your children dress up and deliver candies to neighbors' doorsteps, accompanied by a friendly note or craft.

At-home Crafts: Create Halloween-themed crafts, like foam bats or spider webs made from trash bags, with your children. Display your finished crafts on the front porch for neighbors to admire.

The advent of COVID-19 has certainly altered traditional celebrations, but it need not dampen the Halloween spirit. Remember to maintain safety protocols while indulging in the seasonal festivities. For further guidance, visit the CDC website.

And, while the sight of jack-o'-lanterns may induce a delightful shiver, securing a mortgage shouldn't! Get in touch with a Mortgage Advisor at CrossCountry Mortgage today for a complimentary consultation to learn more about your options. Happy Halloween!