Halloween is going to look very different this year due to the pandemic — some families are opting to forgo trick-or-treating, while others are choosing to trick-or-treat but will take extra precautions. No matter how you plan to celebrate All Hallows’ Eve, there are plenty of ways you can keep your family safe while still having fun!

If You’re Going Out

Wear reflective clothing, or carry glow sticks so cars can see you.
Remind kids to cross streets at sidewalks or corners if they’re old enough to go out alone.
Teach your kids about stranger danger. Tell them if you get separated from you, they should find an authority figure such as a police officer, or a mother with kids, and let them know they’re lost.
Be sure your younger kids know your phone number by heart.
Turn on your security system before you leave!

TRICK OR TREAT ALTERNATIVES

If you choose not to give out treats this year, let trick or treaters know by putting a sign like this one in your yard. Here’s a free printable sign you can use.
Attend a Trunk or Treating event – many local churches are offering them, and they’re a great way to keep socially distanced while still giving your kids the opportunity to fill their bags with candy.
Visit a local apple orchard (we happen to have one or two of those here in Hendersonville!), a corn maze, or a pumpkin patch.
Hide treats around your house and let your kids find them, Easter-egg style.

The CDC has some great tips for keeping safe and more fun ideas for celebrating the season. Check out their guidelines and suggestions here.

Practice Pandemic Protection

Stay 6 feet or more from anyone who does not live in your household.
Wear a cloth mask (make it part of your costume!).
Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.
Set up a treat station outside of your home and let kids get their own candy, rather than handing it out. (You can buy a fun sign like this one or make your own to remind kids not to help themselves to handfuls of candy.)

 

Southern Alarm & Security wishes you a Happy Halloween!