FOR IMMEDIATE RELASE 10.29.20
CONTACT: KARI WEBBER
OKAFP & OKAAP EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
405.323.7173
webber@okafp.org

OKLAHOMA PHYSICIANS ENCOURAGE SAFETY FIRST FOR HALLOWEEN DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

How can you keep your family safe from an illness during the 2020 Halloween festivities? Oklahoma Physicians have guidance and suggestions to reduce the chance your merriment turns scary.

1. Everyone age two years and up should wear a face covering, keep six feet distance where possible, and frequently wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Remember, costume masks are NOT a substitute for a snugly-fitting cloth covering of the nose and mouth.
2. Limit large gatherings. Celebrate with your family. For instance, you can use video chat to show-off costumes. Create new traditions such as a spooky movie night, pumpkin decorating, or creating Halloween treats.
3. Plan to attend fun outdoor community events such as at a park, arboretum, or zoo. Try to stay away from crowds of people and follow distancing rules even when outdoors. Indoor events such as haunted houses may not be safe; however, outdoor events such as a corn maze or haunted forest are much safer.
4. Get your flu shot NOW!

Additional guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (www.healthychildren.org):

1. Consider pre-packaging baggies of treats to hand out or leave at your doorstep to minimize contact.
2. Station yourself at the end of the driveway or sidewalk to encourage social distancing.
3. Anticipate doorbell ringers to reduce the “trick or treat!’ exclamation.
4. Parents consider restricting the number of homes you visit.
5. Encourage masks for door-answerers as well as doorbell ringers.
6. Please don’t go out if you or your child is sick.