Going Trick or Treating? Here’s What Kalamazoo Expects You To Do

Like everything else this year, doing Halloween in the middle of Covid will be a first (and hopefully the last time we have to do it this way.) The City of Kalamazoo has offered up some trick or treating guidelines, for those who are planning on doing it.

Most of this is common-sense stuff we've been hearing since March, but let's review.

If you're a home owner, the City says: (the first are basic common sense, but let's look at them first)

• If you're sick, don't hand out candy. (I mean, come on.)
• Wear a face mask covering BOTH your mouth and nose. (Again, really?)
• Wash your hands often.

Now there rest of these are good ideas, especially the last one, but at some point, the kids are going to ask about candy, so you have to deal with that question. I keep thinking some sort of ladle-like spoon and just drop the candy in their bags, but how are you going to keep the little ones from reaching and touching? I'm sure officials have their collective fingers crossed. Here's the rest of the guidelines for candy givers:

• Use duct tape to mark 6-foot lines in front of your home and leading to driveway/front door.
• Position a distribution table between yourself and trick or treaters.
• Distribute candy on a disinfected table to eliminate direct contact.
• Consider handing out candy in an open space where distancing is possible, rather than from the front door.
• Consider a neighborhood costume parade, it is an easy way to keep safe space between children.

Now, for the parents and kids, here's what the City expects from you.

• Share with your children that this year may be different than last, but let them know some of the new ways you plan to celebrate and still have lots of fun.
• Stay home if sick.
• Talk with your children about safety and social distancing guidelines and expectations. Keep a 6-foot distance from others not in your family group.
• Trick or treat with the people you live with.
• Participate in one-way trick or treating and guide children to stay to the right to ensure social distancing.
• Wear a face mask covering BOTH your mouth and nose
• A costume mask (such as for Halloween) is not a substitute for a cloth mask.
• Do not wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask if wearing both causes difficulty breathing. Instead, consider using a Halloween themed cloth mask.
• Check out halloween2020.org to find exciting activities and ways to celebrate Halloween this year based on levels of COVID risks in your area.