Halloween Safety Tips

Calling all trick-or-treaters, ghosts, and goblins gearing up for a fun, sweet, and safe Halloween.

The CDC recommends all adults and children aged 12 and older get a COVID-19 vaccine, but many trick-or-treaters aren’t eligible to get vaccinated yet. With COVID and the flu virus lingering in the air, consider these four simple safety tips to help minimize the spread of infection among your family and your neighbors.

1. Choose Outdoor Events

The risk of COVID transmission is lower outside, so plan to trick-or-treat and do other activities in small groups in the great outdoors. Maintain social distance and wear a proper cloth mask (not a costume mask) whether you're indoors or outdoors.

2. Consider the Crowd

Choose smaller events and consider the behavior of those attending. It's best to avoid indoor activities where large groups of people are talking, laughing and shouting.

3. Avoid Eating in Large Groups

Events where people are eating and drinking will increase because attendees aren't masked all the time. Before and after you eat, wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer if soap and water isn’t available. Safely remove your mask from the ear strap and place it in a clean, breathable bag or around your wrist while you eat or drink.

4. Check COVID Infection Rates

If your region of the country is experiencing a spike in COVID infection rates and hospitalizations, the risk of contracting the virus may be higher. Before you head out, consider checking your state or local public health website for the latest information.