IDPH Offers Recommendations for Safe Trick-or-Treating

The Illinois Department of Public Health released guidance for safely celebrating Halloween in the midst of the global pandemic.

According to IDPH recommendations, trick-or-treating events should incorporate social distancing, masking, and proper handwashing, as well as adherence to event size limitations.

IDPH guidelines for trick-or-treating:

1) As an alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating, anyone who would like to distribute treats should leave individually wrapped candy or treats on a table, on their front walkways, sidewalks, or any outdoor space that allows for at least six feet of social distance from the door. The individually wrapped candy should be spread out so each piece is not touching another.

2) Trick-or-treaters and those passing out candy should maintain social distance of least six feet and wear proper face coverings. A costume mask, such as those worn for Halloween, is not a substitute for a face covering.

3) Only household members should trick-or-treat together, and they should maintain social distance from other trick-or-treaters at all times. Mixed household trick-or-treaters are discouraged.

4) Alcohol-based hand sanitizer should be carried and used frequently.

5) Candy collected during trick-or-treating should not be consumed until after handwashing. As always, a parent/guardian should check all candy to make sure it is wrapped and should discard unwrapped candy.

6) Outdoor areas are preferred for trick-or-treating. Enclosed indoor areas, like apartment buildings, present greater risk of transmission. Open doors and windows as appropriate to promote increased ventilation.

For this year, it would be safest to plan special events at home, using social media and other meeting platforms to connect with family and friends.