5 Tips for a Spooky, Safe Halloween
On Halloween night, it’s not uncommon to see witches, superheroes and princesses out on the town. This year, however, those spooktacular monsters and princesses just might be staying indoors thanks to the coronavirus pandemic.
“I think we can all agree that this year has been challenging in so many ways that we’ve never experienced before,” says Sam Johnson, Program Lead for the Youth Preparedness Program of the American Red Cross. “COVID-19 has really changed the way that we interact with one another and has really disrupted our daily lives. Now that we’re headed into the holiday season, we really have to consider how we modify our favorite traditions that we love while still making memories with our loved ones and be as safe as we possibly can.”
If you find yourself staying inside on Halloween night, Johnson passed along a fun tip to trick-or-treat indoors this year. She suggests creating a “trick-or treat scavenger hunt,” complete with tasty treats and even a few scary surprises.
“This is a great way to modify [trick-or-treating,]” Johnson says. “They’re still looking for candy and treats, but it’s safe.”
Some other spooky ways to celebrate indoors include:
- Make homemade jack-o-lantern pizzas or quesadillas.
- Spend the night in and indulge in a spooky, Halloween themed movie.
- Bake up a batch of monster cookies. Be sure to include lots of your favorite candies!
- Connect with some of your closest friends and host a virtual costume show.
- Play fun Halloween themed games, such as “pin the spider on the web” or “candy corn ring toss.”
However, staying inside doesn’t need to be the only option, Johnson says. It is important to use your common sense before going out, though. Before heading outdoors, make sure you are adequately prepared to protect yourself and others. If you do go trick-or-treating, Johnson recommends carrying hand sanitizer with you and washing your hands before consuming any candy.
