Greater Sudbury Mayor Brian Bigger said trick or treating is permitted for Halloween this year, but is urging local families to do it safely.
A statement from the mayor's office issued Thursday afternoon said Sudbury residents proved during the recent Thanksgiving weekend they can adapt to the current pandemic situation and act safely in the interests of good health for their families and neighbours.
"I was pleased to learn we received only one complaint about social gatherings over the Thanksgiving long weekend. Together, we are taking this pandemic seriously and adapting accordingly," said Bigger, in a news release.
"I know many of you have questions, and so I wanted to be clear: trick-or-treating is permitted this Halloween, but please do it safely.”
Social media sites across the North have been discussing whether youngsters should be allowed to go door to door. While some people were adamant about the idea of children being able to get out and enjoy the celebration for one night of the year, other people were just as adamant about not wanting strangers knocking on their doors. The mayor's statement addresses both concerns.
"Travel only with members of your household, ensure non-medical masks or face coverings are worn at all times, practice physical distancing, and do not trick-or-treat or hand out candy if you are sick,” he said.
“Please respect and skip houses if the lights are out. People may be choosing to not hand out candy due to health concerns or because they are isolating.”
The statement also mentioned that for families that choose not to go out in public, there are still plenty of options for youngsters including online virtual activities and in-house scavenger hunts for candies.
The statement also encouraged people to skip the idea of holding parties that might become disease-spreading events.
"For our teens and adults, I encourage you to skip the in-person parties and instead host a virtual party or share your spooky costumes on social media,” the statement said.
“Remember, gathering restrictions remain in place: 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors are allowed under provincial legislation, following masking, sanitizing and distancing protocols, but non-essential gatherings of any size should be limited. Stick with members of your household for indoor activities."
The mayor wrapped up the statement by asking city residents to do whatever it takes to keep children and family members safe.
To help people know if you are handing out treats or not, the city created posters which are available here.
