As with so many things this year, celebrating a holiday like Halloween during a global pandemic can still be done. It just takes on a different look and feel to keep everyone safe.
In addition to our Fire Safety tips above, consider these 2020 tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics to keep your ghouls, goblins, sports stars and superheroes from getting unnecessarily exposed to COVID-19, which would be the scariest fright of all.
Virtual Costume Parties & Parades
Host a video chat for an online party where friends and family can show off their costumes and play games.
Spooky Movie Night
Celebrate with a movie night and dress as your favorite characters. Do this as a family at home or watch with friends while video chatting, with everyone starting the movie at the same time.
Pumpkins
Have your child draw a face on a pumpkin with markers, then have an adult do the cutting. Take care to take small strokes and direct the blade away from yourself and others. Consider using a pumpkin saw and avoid large blades that can become lodged in the pumpkin. Place a battery-operated candle or glow stick inside.
Check out Sparky’s Halloween pumpkin template to learn other carving tips.
Halloween-themed Treats
- Bake and decorate Halloween cupcakes as a family.
- Decorate a pizza with toppings in the shape of a jack-o’-lantern.
- Make tangerine pumpkins by peeling a tangerine and sticking a thin slice of celery on top as a stem.
If You Do Go Trick-or-Treating …
- Look for an outdoor venue or event, but stay away from crowds and avoid clusters of people.
- Keep a supply of hand sanitizer with you.
- Use a cloth face mask as part of your costume, but avoid paint as that can be toxic.
At Home
- Sweep wet leaves from sidewalks and steps.
- Check outdoor lights and replace burnt-out bulbs.
- Remove any trip hazards such as garden hoses, toys, bikes or other lawn decorations on the front porch or yard.
- Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump or bite an unsuspecting trick-or-treater.
Have a Safe and Happy Howl-a-Ween Everyone!