Local News

The health unit says we can celebrate Halloween safely this year. Medical officer of health Dr. Paula Stewart says first and foremost, if you or your child has any symptoms of COVID-19 stay home.

That said, Dr. Stewart says those who are going out can do so safely. 

She also says its really important that kids wear a proper mask, and costume masks don’t work as well as the masks we’ve become used to. Also don’t let kids crowd your doorstep, make efforts  to limit close interactions as much as possible.

Dr. Stewart says the risk is low, because our infection rate is low and vaccination rate so high, so have fun.

Here is the official list of tips from the Health Unit to help you enjoy the day. 

If you trick-or-treat door-to-door:

• stay home and do not give out treats if you have symptoms, even if they are mild
• trick-or-treat outdoors as much as possible and keep interactions brief at the doors and between houses
• be creative and build the face covering into your costume. Remember that a costume mask is not a substitute for a face covering. A costume mask should not be worn over a non-medical mask or face covering because it can be dangerous if the costume mask makes it hard to breathe.
• do not crowd doorsteps – take turns one at a time
• do not sing or shout for your treats
• use hand sanitizer often, especially before and after handling your face covering, after touching frequently touched surfaces, when you arrive home from trick-or-treating, and before and after handling or eating treats
• there is no need to clean or disinfect pre-packaged treats