Masks will do the trick
TOP TIPS FOR FAMILIES TO ENJOY A HEALTHY AND SAFE HALLOWEEN Where to buy the spookiest decorations
For the second year in a row, the pandemic is forcing Australians to find Covid-safe ways to celebrate Halloween. And while the virus won’t frighten families off dressing up, decorating their homes and going trick or treating, following a few sensible guidelines can help reduce any health risks.
Since Halloween already involves masks, it should be easy to incorporate a Covidsafe face covering into your child’s costume.
Hallozween cofounder Andrea Beattie says you can buy a range of specific Halloween masks on eBay and Etsy featuring creepy zombie smiles or animal faces to create your look.
“Fabric stores such as Spotlight have a spooktacular range of Halloween fabrics so if you are handy enough, or know someone who is, you can create a custom-made mask featuring a spooky design to match your Halloween vibe – just make sure the masks meet the medical requirements,” she says.
“An easy way to incorporate a mask into your costume is to go as one of our medical heroes; a doctor or nurse, and just wear a medicalgrade mask and scrubs. You could creep it up a little and go as a mad scientist or zombie doctor and incorporate a little creepy makeup or fake blood.”
You can also decorate a plain mask by using non-toxic fabric markers or crayons.
SAFE TRICK-OR-TREATING
There are ways risk can be lowered when trick-or-treating this year.
These include bringing hand sanitiser, practising social distancing and handing out pre-packaged sweets to avoid spreading germs.
Keep props from being passed around and ask kids to hold on to their own treat bags.
“The socially distanced Covid candy slide which was a massive hit last year will probably make a return in 2021,” Beattie says. “It’s basically a PVC pipe decorated with Halloween trinkets to safely dispense treats.
“Some houses offering trick-ortreating may have signs saying they are double vaccinated, which can give parents a little extra peace of mind.
“You can let your neighbourhood know you’re Halloween-friendly by tying an orange balloon to your letterbox or putting up a ‘trick or treaters welcome’ sign. Never knock on the door of someone whose house isn’t decorated.”
NEIGHBOURHOOD HAUNTS
Beattie says to jump on your local community Facebook group and see who is planning on decorating their yards or handing out candy.
“Make a list and post them to your group so families can plan a walk or bike ride to visit them,” she says. “Be sure to suggest everyone go in costume to generate a little extra Halloween spirit. If you’re not in an area with restrictions, you may be able to create a front yard display or maze walk-through. Make sure it’s set up so everyone can still socially distance and feel safe.”