Halloween is right around the corner, but is it safe this year for the kids to roam around the block? The official CDC position cautions parents that traditional Halloween activities are high risk for contracting the COVID-19. However, there are many spooky celebrations that limit exposure and allow for fall traditions (and sugar rushes, of course!) Don’t worry, Maid Right has your back. We’ve compiled a list of CDC-approved festivities so you can celebrate safely this year.
1. Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
2. Cloth masks – NOT costume masks. Don’t layer costume masks over regular masks, and don’t paint cloth masks.
3. Six feet of social distancing from people you don’t live with!
Carving goofy faces into jack-o’-lanterns is a beloved tradition. And the best way to avoid the gooey mess of pumpkin guts? Take it outside! If you want to invite a few friends, make sure you wear masks outside and maintain social distancing.
Going door-to-door is a definite safety concern this year. Studies show that COVID-19 can survive for up to 72 hours on plastic surfaces, which means candy wrappers can harbor some risk. If you do decide to participate in trick-or-treating, consider setting the candy aside for 72 hours to allow any potential particles to die before touching the candy wrappers. Just be aware that contact with neighbors is the greatest potential exposure, so try to avoid houses without bowls set out on the porch.
If you decide not to participate in traditional trick-or-treating, try a backyard trick-or-treat scavenger hunt or a sidewalk tour with your family to enjoy the Halloween decorations and festivities without prolonged contact with others.
Picking the perfect pumpkin is a fun, exciting way to get the family out of the house. As long as you maintain proper social distancing, wear a mask, and sanitize appropriately, this activity is safe and enjoyable for the family! Be sure to call ahead to see if you need a reservation, as many orchards are limiting the number of visitors allowed at one time.
For a completely low-risk costume parade, host a virtual fashion show over Zoom. However, if you feel you can comfortably adhere to CDC recommended guidelines, then you can get a small group together for a socially-distanced outdoor costume party. Large crowds are still a no-go, so limit the size of your gathering to prevent unnecessary exposure.
Stream a classic Halloween movie over a projector on the side of your house. This can be a family-only activity and a fun way to switch things up from the kids’ typical TV experience, or you can invite friends over to watch from a distance. A movie is the perfect excuse to whip up some sweet Halloween treats, like spider cookie truffles or Halloween popcorn balls!
No matter how your family decides to celebrate, make sure to maintain proper social distancing from other families, and avoid going out in large crowds. It’s the easiest way to keep your family and your neighbors safe and healthy this Halloween.
And for all your residential cleaning needs, remember your neighborhood Maid Right has your family’s safety in mind. Give us a call at (855) MAID-RIGHT.