Ingham County’s top health official says she is not advising safety guidelines for trick or treating that would go beyond those laid out by the state.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has issued recommendations for Halloween that seem typical these days. They include not participating if you’re sick, wearing a cloth mask, and avoiding large groups.
Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail agrees with the guidelines. She adds that contracting the coronavirus usually requires close proximity for a long time, saying "those short, brief interactions aren’t necessarily high risk. They aren’t also no risk. So, the precautions are important.”
The state’s recommendations for homeowners include placing a disinfected table between you and trick or treaters, using duct tape to mark off six feet of distance between groups, or handing out candy in an open space away from the door to facilitate distancing.
The state also reminds families that costume masks are not a substitute for a cloth mask over the mouth and nose.
The health department also advises staying to the right while trick or treating, to ensure social distancing.
