HoCo Trick-Or-Treaters Warned To Be Careful During Coronavirus

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Trick-or-treaters in Howard County are being advised not to go door-to-door in search of tasty treats due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. If families prefer to trick-or-treat this fall, county officials ask that they stay within household groups and follow social distancing. Wearing a mask is a must, even with costumes that have masks. Officials also advise residents to leave treats on their porches or front stoops and not interact with trick-or-treaters.

“As the air becomes crisper, the leaves start falling and stores begin filling their shelves with candy, we want to remind residents that we are still combatting a deadly health crisis,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “As Halloween approaches, I encourage residents to begin planning now so we can ensure all festivities are done safely. In coordination with the Howard County Health Department, we have put together important guidance to help keep our children and communities safe. This year is a time for creativity not just with costumes, but in how to celebrate safely.”

The Howard County Health Department recommends the following best practices for Halloween festivities and fall seasonal celebrations:

• Avoid large gatherings, parties and events.
• Door-to-door trick or treating is not encouraged, but if done, should be done in household groups, keeping physical distance between other groups and using flashlights or glowsticks so walkers can be easily seen.
• Treats are encouraged to be left outside.
• Trick-or-treaters should wash hands or use sanitizer between homes and after touching surfaces and objects.
• Facial covering should be worn even if wearing a costume mask.
• Indoor activities are riskier than outdoor activities and indoor activities should be avoided.
• Pumpkin patch and hayrides should be conducted in small groups and non-family members should be physically distanced.
• Indoor haunted houses, where it may be difficult to maintain physical distancing and enforce other mitigation strategies, should be restricted.

“In order to keep our families safe, it is critical that we are cautious about how we celebrate the fall holidays,” said Dr. Maura Rossman, Howard County Health Officer. “Maintaining physical distancing, wearing a facial covering, avoiding large gatherings, washing hands often and limiting indoor events will help us be healthy and safe."