Trick-or-treat time: How to keep kids safe, what’s in store weather wise on Halloween Sunday
Posted October 31, 2021 7:53 am.
Last Updated October 31, 2021 8:08 am.
Ghosts and ghouls are ready to get their treats and play some tricks this Halloween as health officials issue reminders to stay safe during the pandemic.
With higher COVID-19 vaccination rates and lower daily cases, the province is giving kids the go-ahead to trick or treat this year. Toronto Public Health is the latest local health unit with some tips to keep safe this Halloween.
The agency reminds trick or treaters to maintain physical distancing, frequently wash hands, and continue mask-wearing where and when possible. It adds that a costume mask is not a substitute for one made of cloth.
Last week, Ontario’s chief medical officer of health spoke ahead of the festivities and highly-anticipated night, adding that while Halloween activities are encouraged, Dr. Kieran Moore said children who are sick – even with mild symptoms – shouldn’t participate.
“I’d say the goal for kids is to have fun this year, most importantly. But we’re still in a pandemic,” Moore said. “Costume masks don’t replace face coverings… Children can and should incorporate their face covering into their costumes, when necessary.”
A recent poll found fewer than half of Canadians (44 per cent) will be opening their doors to trick-or-treaters this year because of the pandemic. Last year, Ontario recommended that kids in the four COVID-19 hot spots of Toronto, Ottawa, Peel and York Regions refrain from trick-or-treating.
TPH is advising parents and residents to hand out pre-packaged items if possible to prevent transmission. Some alternatives to the traditional festivities include planning a scavenger hunt at home, baking Halloween treats, and sharing scary stories with the family.
Eager participants should be greeted with mild temperatures and a timely escape from the rain on the weather front.
There is a risk for isolated showers in some spots late this evening, but that depends solely on location. Temperatures should hover around 12 degrees near sunset, dropping to 10 degrees tonight.
