Hamilton trick-or-treaters asked not to shout for candy

Carve your jack jack-o'-lanterns and get your pillowcases ready, Hamilton - it's nearly the spookiest day of the year.

Halloween is back once again, marking the second pandemic-style celebration of its kind.

Last year's annual festivities saw Ontarians get creative with their trick-or-treating, with goody bags hung up on clothes lines and sweets sent down candy chutes.

Some communities were also discouraged from trick-or-treating due to case numbers, while young Hamiltonians were given the formal go-ahead from city staff.

This year both the province and the City of Hamilton have released guidelines to ensure a safe, sweet and spooky time is had by all - meaning trick-or-treating is a go.

Here's a breakdown of how to get your candy fill without feeling ill.

Keep things quiet

It's always been a tradition to yell or perhaps sing for candy, with the sounds of trick-or-treat" echoing down the block.

But this year, kids are asked to keep their candy requests to a much quieter level, as COVID-19 spreads through aerosol droplets that come out when people talk, even more so if they shout or sing.

Interactions at the doorstep should also be kept quick and brief.

Be cautious

Pandemic practices should be kept in mind. Kids are reminded to maintain physical distancing, trick-or-treat outside as much as possible, sanitize often and not crowd porches or front steps.

If anything, children should go up one at a time or stick with one group.

If you're feeling even a bit under the weather, stay home.

If you do go out, there is no need to clean the prepackaged treats afterwards, according to public health. But always remember to inspect the candy, as needles and razor blades have been found in candy in years past.

Get creative

Public health is recommending kids wear masks, as physical distancing may be a challenge at times.

But that doesn't mean you can't have fun with it. Find a way to build your mask into your costume, but remember that a costume-style mask is not a substitute for a face covering and that costume masks should not be worn over a face mask.

Tips for homeowners

If you're planning on handing out candy this year, keep interactions with trick-or-treaters short and encourage them to move along quickly after getting their treat from you.

Wear a mask and if you're dressing up, try including a face covering as part of your costume.

Only give out purchased or packaged treats and do not ask trick-or-treaters to sing or shout for their goodies.

Wash your hands often.

And if you're feeling even a little bit under the weather, don't take part and keep the candy for yourself.

Fallon Hewitt is a Hamilton-based reporter at The Spectator. Reach her via email: fhewitt@thespec.com