Oct. 30. Mecklenburg County Public Health is reminding residents of some safety suggestions for how you can enjoy Halloween while still keeping in mind concerns regarding the transmission of COVID-19.  

Be mindful of all current restrictions such as mask wearing and physical distancing.

Several Halloween activities are not recommended. In particular, any type of gathering that does not adhere to the 3 Ws (wear a mask, wait at a social distance, wash your hands) and thereby increases the risk of exposure to COVID-19 should be avoided, both during Halloween and afterward.

Mecklenburg County Public Health has produced a flyer with Dos and Don’ts to keep in mind.  https://www.mecknc.gov/news/PublishingImages/HALLOWEEN%20TIPS%20v3.pdf#search=halloween  

The other big “don’t” s are:

—Participate in traditional trick-or-treating in crowded areas, self­ selecting candy, or touching of candy or candy dishes

—Host trunk or treat events

—Substitute a Halloween costume mask for a face covering or exchange masks or coverings with anyone else. 

—Host or attend large neighborhood pumpkin carving or block parties, haunted houses or festivals

—Host or attend crowded costume parties or events

Safer alternatives include:

—Carve pumpkins and decorate your home with your family; drive around and check out your neighbor’s decorations as well 

—Host a virtual Halloween costume party 

—Make individually wrapped candy available or individually wrapped goodie bags; wash your hands before and after preparing bags 

—Space out candy or goodie bags in a safe place outside, preferably 6 feet from your door

—Wear your favorite costume and a cloth face covering to your favorite socially distancing restaurant with your family 

—Make and enjoy your favorite fall beverage and foods at home with your family. Create a scavenger hunt in your yard for your own children 

—Wear your favorite costume and have a Halloween movie night with your family