Ghosts, goblins and ghouls of all kinds will take to the streets in search of treats this Halloween. But local health officials are asking these monsters to take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
There are a few ways that households and trick or treaters can prepare for a safe Halloween. Haines EOC incident commander Carolann Wooton said it is useful to know which houses are open to trick or treating before heading out.
People who are feeling ill or are at high risk of severe symptoms from COVID-19 may not want to participate.
“Something that says we are not participating in Halloween, just a little note on the door, might be a good way to let people know. Not leaving lights on is of course kind of a time honored tradition that we’ve always done over the years. You go to the houses that are lit up and people show you that they’re inviting and they’re looking forward to passing out candy,” Wooton said.
There is also a Facebook event created by Haines resident Krystal Lloyd where households that will have candy share their addresses so trick or treaters know where to go.
Another consideration is how to distribute candy hygienically. One option is to leave out individually bagged treats on a table to avoid close contact and overhandling.
“We do not recommend any homemade food items but to used prepackaged candy as much as possible. Using gloves when you pass out candy is a good idea. Also, maybe putting out some small bottles of hand sanitizer so that kids and family members can use it if they come by and they think they need it,” Wooton said. “I think anything you can do to keep it outside and spread out and socially distanced, 6 feet, is the best thing you can do.”
Wooton recommended that trick or treaters stick with members of their immediate household and wear cloth masks over their nose and mouth.
The Municipality of Skagway recently asked residents to stay at home and avoid gatherings as much as possible due to a recent outbreak of COVID-19. But that shelter in place order ends Saturday morning.
Skagway Emergency Operations Center spokesperson Cody Jennings said she expects families will be out trick or treating on Halloween, but some of the regular annual events are not happening this year.
“Traditionally our rec center hosts a Halloween event. That is not happening,” Jennings said. “They are going to be making goodie bags available for individuals to just come pick up.”
Jennings said in addition to health precautions, Skagway residents should stay bear aware on Halloween. A brown bear and cub were recently spotted in town. Skagway’s EOC is asking that people stay vigilant and keep bear attractants secured.
For more tips on how to stay safe this Halloween visit the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website.