Halloween is coming!
In my house the kids are getting pretty excited about Halloween. Costume plans are changing by the day and dreams of mini chocolate bars are dancing in their heads. Since Halloween was cancelled last year we didn’t have a chance to try out our new neighbourhood. We moved from the Elmvale Acres side of the Riverview Park community to the west side just after Halloween 2019. So now we are discussing our candy collection strategy before the big night.
Halloween Decor
While we debate costumes and candy-seeking plans, some people are clearly more organized than we are because there is some excellent decorating happening around the Riverview Park community.
Halloween Safety
Whether you are taking kids out trick or treating, your kids are heading out on their own, or you are out in the community, Ottawa Public Health has provided some advice to help keep everyone safe. I notice there is nothing included about trapping ghosts or protecting yourselves from roaming crowds of zombies.
COVID safety for all
- Trick or treaters and their adult chaperones should stay home if they have any COVID symptoms, even mild ones
- If you’re giving out treats but have symptoms or are isolating, leave the treats in a bowl outside your door
- Trick or treat outdoors as much as possible but if indoors try to physically distance and wear a non-medical mask/face covering if you can’t physically distance
- Carry hand sanitizer and use it after touching your face mask or frequently touched surfaces and wash hands thoroughly before digging into the treats
Motorists
- Drive carefully and keep an eye out for children, adults and goblins
Trick-or-treaters
- The best costumes are light-coloured or reflective.
- Carry a flashlight or glow stick.
- Costumes should be short for safe walking.
- A costume mask isn’t a substitute for a proper face mask – get creative and incorporate the mask into the costume
- Use face makeup instead of a costume mask, as many masks impede vision.
- Take turns at the door so as not to crowd doorsteps
- Do not sing or shout for your treats – but a ‘thank you’ is always appreciated
Jack-o-lanterns
- Keep the sharp carving tools with the adults.
- Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick instead of regular candles.Teach children to stay away from open flames andnever leave a lit candle unattended.
Be a good neighbour
- Please keep music and noise from getting too loud, especially after 11 pm.
- Be patient and understanding because:
- Not all children can wear costumes because of sensitivities.
- Not all children can say trick or treat.
- Older children with disabilities also enjoy trick-or-treating.
- Keep an eye out for obstacles that may make moving from house to house more difficult.
- Is your home or entrance fully accessible to everyone? Visit treataccessibly.com for tips.
Halloween parties
- Indoor social gatherings are now permitted for up to 25 people.
- Having a party? Celebrate safely during COVID 19.
- Don’t mix alcohol and drugs.
- Before you go out, plan your travel home with a designated driver or paid transportation.
- If you feel unsafe or unwell, ask for help immediately from people you know.
- Call 9-1-1 immediately if you or someone else is unable to walk, loses consciousness or exhibits other signs of overdose or alcohol poisoning.