Fall is one of my favorite times of the year and Halloween is a big reason why. I’ve really grown to enjoy our country’s “Trick-or-Treat” tradition. We usually try to celebrate it by making it special for the kids.

Last year’s Halloween was a let down after especially looking forward to it. It was going to land on a Saturday, and we were really going to do it up special with a big party. The global COVID-19 pandemic derailed our plans and we had to cancel that planned event. And most skipped trick-or-treating all together last year. This year Halloween is on a Sunday.

As always, I recommend following the Halloween safety tips listed below:

  • STAY IN A GROUP
  • KIDS SHOULD ALWAYS BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT SUPERVISOR
  • FOLLOW THE RULES OF THE ROAD
  • STAY IN WELL LIT AREAS AND USE GLOW-STICKS AND REFECTORS
  • STAY TWO-ARMS DISTANCE FROM THE FRONT DOORSTEP (Kids should never go into a stranger’s home)
  • LISTEN TO YOUR INNER-VOICE AND CHOOSE WISELY (you don’t have to knock on every door)
  • TRY YOUR COSTUME ON BEFORE YOU GO (for fit and make sure you can see)
  • MAKE SURE YOUR COSTUME IS NOT FLAMABLE
  • MAKE SURE AN ADULT CHECKS YOUR CANDY BEFORE EATING ANY

But this year we have a few more things to think about. The CDC recommends we avoid large indoor Halloween parties this year, like last year, but says it’s probably safe to trick-or-treat outside, in small groups with the following precautions:

  1. Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters
  2. Give out treats outdoors, if possible
  3. Set up a station with individually bagged treats for kids to take
  4. Wash hands before handling treats
  5. Wear a cloth or surgical mask
  6. Use hand sanitizer and make sure the kids wash their hands as soon as they get home

Please visit the CDC’s website for a more complete explanation and any updates.

Be safe out there as you enjoy your Halloween however is best for you and your family. And we look forward to seeing you this fall, happy and healthy as we look forward with gratitude.