As Knox County’s towns gear up for Halloween activities, County Health Department Administrator Michele Gabriel urges safety precautions due to the coronavirus pandemic. “We want to emphasize, as people are planning their fun activities, keep safety in mind and choose activities that minimize the opportunity for COVID-19 transmission, “Gabriel states.
“Halloween doesn’t have to be canceled completely this year, but it is critical that we stay vigilant and follow the three Ws -wear a face covering, watch your distance and wash our hands and stay home when sick, states Gabriel. “We encourage you to look for new, safer ways to celebrate this year. You might even end up creating a new Halloween tradition.”
Should residents partake in trick-or-treating, they are encouraged to follow the flowing guidance:
- Leave individually wrapped candy or treats on a table, on their front walkways, sidewalks, or any outdoor space that allows for at least 6 feet of social distance from the door.
- Maintain social distance of at least 6 feet and wear proper face coverings. A costume mask, such as those worn for Halloween, is not a substitute for a face covering. If face coverings are worn under costume masks, please ensure this does not create breathing problems, and if so, discard the costume mask.
- Only household members should trick-or-treat together, and they should maintain 6-feet social distance from other trick-or-treaters at all times. Mixed household trick-or-treaters are discouraged.
- Carry hand sanitizer.
- Candy collected should not be consumed until after handwashing.
- Outdoor areas are preferred for trick-or-treating. Enclosed indoor areas, like apartment buildings, present a greater risk of transmission.
“Ultimately, the goal is for every resident to have the opportunity to celebrate Halloween in a manner they feel comfortable with while also ensuring the continued health and safety of our community, “said Gabriel. “We’re encouraging residents to educate themselves about the risks so that they can either practice appropriate measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 or take steps to sit trick-or-treating out this year.”
The Knox County Health Department in conjunction with the State of Illinois will be holding a Free COVID-19 Testing on Saturday, October 31st, & Sunday, November 1st from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Knox County Fair Ground, drive-thru or walk up. It is open to all Illinois residents, regardless of symptoms. Please bring your identification. At the drive-thru testing, staff will be practicing masking and social distancing throughout the event, and all individuals are being asked to wear face coverings as well.
***Report Courtesy of the Knox County Health Department***
