Trick or Treating Safety Tips From Southwestern Public Health

Thursday, 15 October 2020 at 11:12

The regions top Doctor says kids in Oxford County can go trick or treating this year as long as they take a few extra safety precautions.

OXFORD COUNTY - Earlier this week, Canada's top doctor and Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Theresa Tam said that kids can go trick or treating this year if they follow certain safety precations.

Dr. Tam says some of the hot spot areas should not be doing it, but in other locations, like Oxford County, it's important to celebrate holidays to preserve a sense of normalcy.

Southwestern Public Health is advising community members to be cautious and consider local risks when planning Hallowe'en activities. They are offering the following tips for trick or treaters this year to manage COVID-19 risks:

- Stay home if feeling ill or if you have mild symptoms.
- Only go out trick-or-treating outside and with members of your immediate household.
- Trick-or-treaters and people handing out candy should wear a face covering.
- Do not congregate or linger at doorsteps and line up two metres apart if waiting.
- Whether collecting or handing out treats, wash hands often or use hand sanitizer.
- Use tongs to hand out treats; do not leave treats in a bowl for children to grab.
- A costume mask is not a substitute for a face covering and should not be worn over a face covering as it may be difficult to breathe. Consider incorporating a face covering into your child's costume instead.

Local Medical Officer of Health Dr. Joyce Lock says that kids in our region can go trick or treating.

"With our relatively low rates in the region, Hallowe’en activities including a limited trick-or-treat night may proceed. I recommend families pay close attention to our COVID-19 cases as we lead up to October 31st and adjust plans as needed."

Other safe Hallowe’en options include decorating the exterior of your home, hosting a virtual pumpkin carving or costume contest, or watching Hallowe’en movies with members of your household.

View additional guidance for festive gatherings online at www.swpublichealth.ca/covid19.