State health officials issue guidelines for safely celebrating Halloween during COVID-19
Halloween will look a little different this year because of COVID-19, but state health officials say there are still ways to have fun, while helping to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.
It is important to avoid close contact with people outside of your household. Some ways you can do this while still celebrating Halloween is to have a candy scavenger hunt at your home. Decorate for the spooky season and hide candy around your yard and house.
You could also have a Halloween movie marathon with your favorite treats or host an online costume contest with all your friends.
If you are going trick-or-treating, the health department says it is important to social distant and wear a cloth mask. Health officials say plastic costume masks are not a suitable substitute so make sure to wear your cloth mask underneath.
If you are handing out candy, health officials suggest placing candy in your yard or driveway to prevent crowding at the door. Mini pumpkins can also be used to keep trick-or-treaters distanced while waiting for treats.
“Many children and families in Washington are wanting to know what happens on Halloween this year. This holiday, along with most of our holidays, will look and feel a bit different,” said Lacy Fehrenbach, Deputy Secretary of Health for COVID-19. “The good news is that with some changes, we can find meaningful and fun ways to celebrate while still working to reduce COVID-19 transmission in our state.”
As always, wear a cloth mask, avoid confined spaces and close contact with people outside of your household, sanitize your hands often, and stay home if you are sick or have recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
