By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org
Will there be trick-or-treating this Halloween? The answer is yes, although it may look a little different this year.
There has been no state or local mandates cancelling trick-or-treating, however the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has encouraged people to consider alternative Halloween options such as carving pumpkins and then walking around and viewing Halloween decorations or have a virtual costume contest. In fact, there is an entire website, Halloween2020.org, that provides information on risk factors throughout the entire country and recommended Halloween activities.
Traditionally, the Wyoming City Council has never weighted in on specifics for Halloween but instead has left the option up to neighborhoods and families to decide what works best for them. For 2020, the council has kept to that tradition, according to Amanda Moore, communications specialist for the City of Wyoming.
The City of Kentwood, which has its guidelines on its website, is encouraging trick-or-treating from 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. Kentwood also has a curfew ordinance. Unless accompanied by a parent or responsible adult over the age of 21, children who are under 12-years-old must be off the streets by 10 p.m., 13 to 16-years-old by 11 p.m., and 17 years-old by midnight.
Representatives from both cities said they are encouraging community members to practice social distancing, wear a mask when around others, and follow CDC guidelines. In fact, Kent County Health Department representatives said they also are directing residents to the CDC or to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for guidance on having a safe Halloween. Both have put out quite the list of safety practices, so here are the highlights:
Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters
Give out treats outdoors, if possible
Set up a station with individuals bagged treats for kids to take
Wash hands before handling treats
Use hand sanitizer of at least 60% alcohol
And when we say wear a mask, we are not talking about one that disguises but rather the face mask that covers both the mouth and nose. Health officials encourage participants to incorporate the face mask into their costume design.
Participants are being reminded to stay at least six feet apart and of course, if you are sick stay home and/or do not hand out candy.
The Usual Halloween Warnings
For every Halloween, the Kent County Sheriff’s Department and local law enforcement have put out reminders to drivers about large numbers of people out for Halloween and therefore motorists should drive slowly through neighborhoods and keep an eye out for children who might dart out into the street. While the number of trick-or-treaters could be less this year, motorists still should be alert when traveling.
Anyone wearing a costume should be visible after dark so reflective tape on the costume, glow sticks or flashlights are recommended.
Also have everyone wait until after trick-or-treating before digging into the treats so the candy can be inspected and anything suspicious is discarded.
Be respectful and do not visit house without porch or outdoor lights on. Also, if you see something that appears suspicious, report to your local law enforcement or call 911.
