The Government of the Northwest Territories has laid out Covid-19 related safety guidelines as young ghouls and goblins get set for Halloween later this month.
The territorial government issued a news release on Thursday stating there are a list of public health behaviours that should be kept in mind while travelling door-to door on Oct. 31.
The GNWT is recommending that residents trick-or-treat in outdoor spaces as much as possible and that washing hands often is important before and after handling non-medical masks and face coverings, after frequently touching surfaces such as door bells, when arriving home from trick-or-treating and before and after handling or eating treats.
The GNWT is also asking the public to be mindful of group sizes when trick-or-treating.
"Keep your trick-or-treating partners to your household and Friendship Circle – the five people you like to spend time with most," the release states.
People are also asked to keep interactions brief at homes when getting treats.
"When approaching houses, take turns one at a time at the door and stay six feet or two metres from others," the release states.
The GNWT is also recommending that people wear mittens at all times when trick-or-treating and to wash those mittens as well as costumes when arriving back home.
"Wash your hands for 20 seconds. Do not touch your face with the mittens," the release adds.
Julie Green, minister of health and social services said in a statement that it is important that the event go ahead to ensure residents are able to have an active lifestyle.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has been a challenging time, especially when it has created barriers to social interaction, particularly for young people in the NWT," she stated. "Being able to celebrate Halloween is important for our territory’s social and mental well-being.
"While Halloween will look a little bit different this year, I know our territory is resilient and creative and I look forward to seeing how families, friends, and especially kids bring that creativity to life, while keeping each other safe during our first pandemic Halloween.