HSHS Good Shepherd is recommending that parents take precautions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Illinois Department of Public Health is recommending that if you do go trick or treating that you keep in mind that you may have close contact with neighbors. With the pandemic still going on, some doctors are recommending wearing a facemask, washing your hands and maintaining social distance.

The Illinois Department of Health says that there are alternatives that you can do in exchange for trick or treating. You can create a scavenger hunt around your backyard using flashlights to find hidden candy, decorate an area in your house, turn on scary music, wear costumes and record a family greeting.  You can have a movie night watching some halloween classics, and plan a special halloween themed party or meal with close friends.

The IDPH also recommends contactless trick or treating with individual treat bags and leaving them on a table on your front walkways, sidwalks for people to get where you don't have to actually be outside. Use flashlights, glow sticks, and reflective tape if its available. Stay on sidewalks and stay in well lit areas. Use alcohol based hand sanitizer and wash your hands before consuming any candy. Check all candy to make sure it's wrapped. Wear a cloth mask instead of a plastic one, latex, or silicone. A costume mask does not work for COVID. 

For more information visit the IDPH website.