SALT LAKE CITY — With most counties in the state in the high COVID-19 transmission index, health leaders are encouraging people to skip trick-or-treating this year.
Yet, despite the risks, many Utahns are keeping with tradition.
“There is a dilemma. Do we or don’t we? Do we send our kids? Do we go with them? What are we supposed to do to keep safe?” says Kathy Riggs, USU Professor of Consumer Sciences,
Whatever route you take, Rigg says follow CDC guidelines – wear a face covering and stay 6 feet apart from others.
“Keep in mind that once you’re indoors in close proximity it’s best to protect yourself.” said Riggs.
Riggs says ask neighbors ahead of time if they’ll be handing out candy this year and be sure to avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
Some people are using a tube to drop candy down or tongs. Another solution is setting individually bagged candy on a table outdoors.
“I plan to just drape sort of like a clothesline across my front porch with the Candy clothes penned in just a little note please help yourself to one.,” said Riggs.
If you opt out of handing out candy this year, you can hang a sign on your door or in your yard putting neighbors on alert.
“It doesn’t have to be mean or anything it could even be designed as a headstone or a pumpkin and put on a post out in your yard," said Riggs.
If you’re skipping out on trick or treating, there are other ways to celebrate; carve pumpkins, have a movie night, decorate the inside or outside of your home, or walk around the neighborhood and check out all the fun, spooky displays.
