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Herbert won't cancel Halloween, wants Utah trick-or-treaters to be safe

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SALT LAKE CITY — As Utah dealt with the state's highest number of single-day COVID-19 cases on Thursday, Gov. Gary Herbert set guidelines for parents and children to enjoy Halloween at the end of the month.

While some cities have gone as far as to cancel the holiday altogether, Herbert hopes Utahns will police themselves to make sure the pandemic doesn't ruin Halloween.

"We need to think twice how we're going to do that so that we can have a safe and happy Halloween." said Herbert.

Despite masks being a part of many costumes, Herbert emphasized those masks do not protect against the virus. The governor says protective masks should be worn under all costume masks.

Social distancing should remain in effect, even when collecting candy and going from house-to-house. Trick-or-treaters should wait until a group clears away from a porch or front door before moving forward.

Herbert also asked parents to keep candy from their children before it can be brought home so that it can be safely wiped clean with sanitary wipes.

If common sense is followed, Herbert said he sees no reason for it to be a scary or spooky Halloween when it comes to COVID-19

"We've got a fun holiday coming up here. Let's make sure it's a safe and a happy one and we follow good, appropriate protocol."