Hinshaw hasn't cancelled Halloween, but urges coronavirus caution

Oct 2 2020, 4:14 pm

Albertan kids will still be able to trick-or-treat this Halloween.

Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw spoke of the spookiest day of the year during a press conference on Thursday, stating that Halloween was very much not cancelled, but that some precautions will need to be made to ensure everyone’s safety as celebrations commence.

“I have no plans to suggest that Alberta cancel Halloween this year,” she stated during the press conference.

“My own children would never forgive me. In many ways, Halloween is actually safer to celebrate than other holidays. Unlike Thanksgiving, for example, where families traditionally gather inside to enjoy dinner together, most of Halloween’s activities take place outdoors and largely within one family.”

Even with Halloween’s inherently safe nature when it comes to preventing the spread of coronavirus, Hinshaw and Alberta Health Services have offered a number of suggestions for staying safe on October 31.

Those who are going trick-or-treating are urged to stay home if they are feeling sick, to stay within their community, wear a costume that allows for a mask, and avoid touching doorbells or railings.

Calling “trick-or-treat” from two metres away from a door is suggested, as is disinfecting candy before enjoying.

Those who are handing out candy this Halloween are encouraged to refrain from doing so if they are feeling sick, are asked to wear a mask, use tongs to hand out candy, hand out candy from a front lawn or driveway if possible, and find other creative ways to deliver candy to trick-or-treaters without unnecessary contact.

Anyone hoping to host a Halloween party is cautioned to keep their gatherings small and outdoors if possible, and to refrain from sharing food and drinks.

More info on Halloween precautions can be found at the Alberta Health Services website.

Chandler WalterChandler Walter

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