Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Halloween 2020 gives up the ghost
..but don’t give up the ghost on having some fun just yet
THE Public Health Agency has put the frighteners on anyone hoping to celebrate Halloween in traditional fashion this weekend.
It is urging the public to keep safe by coming up with new ways to mark the spookiest day of the year while sticking to the Covid-19 guidelines.
Head of health protection at the PHA Dr Gerry Waldron said: “The past six months have been tough for everyone, so it is important we take the opportunity to have fun and enjoy ourselves when we can and Halloween is the perfect opportunity to do this safely.
“With just a bit of creativity we can think of new ways to have fun at Ha l l o w e e n which also keep us safe from Covid-19. We do not advise continuing the tradition of bobbing for apples this year or going outside to trick or treat within the community.
“These are not safe practices as they increase the risk of infection. Sharing of food and sweets can also spread the Covid-19 virus.
“Face-to-face interactions with older and vulnerable neighbours could also put them at risk.
“We want people to have fun but to not become complacent or risk the health of themselves and others by going against guidelines or regulations. The key is to stay safe when enjoying Halloween.”
A spokesw oman for the Northern Ireland E xecutive pointed out different households should not meet indoors during the Halloween break unless in a bubble.
She added: “Restrictions are in place to curb the spread of Covid-19 across the community. These measures include limiting interactions between households and restricting the number of people who can gather together.
“We want families to be able to enjoy the Halloween season and mid-term break.
“However, we urge everyone to do so in line with the regulations and public health advice to keep you, your family and the community as safe as possible.
“Different households, which are not part of a bubble, should not meet indoors and no event or activity should be planned which may result in a gathering of more than 15 people outdoors.”
ACTIVITIES
The following games and activities that will work within the restrictions have been encouraged by the PHA:
Plan your Halloween theme now and begin to make or adapt costumes as we approach the holiday period
Make your own decorations and pumpkin lanterns together as a family project
Arrange a virtual party online with other families or relatives with prizes for the best Halloween costume
Organise a Halloween treat hunt
around your own home or garden
Make some drawings you can display in the window
Organise virtual events with other families, and
Take a vote for your favourite film and watch it together.
A PHA spokesperson said: “As coronavirus is circulating widely this is a critical time for us all to ensure we adhere to the regulations and guidance and follow public health advice.
“This approach will benefit our communities and those around us now and as we head into winter. In general, we should limit our contacts and maintain a social distance of at least two metres (six feet) from anyone outside the household. Wash hands regularly and wear a face covering as appropriate.”