Hubble, Bubble, Avoid Covid-Trouble this Halloween

The Covid-19 crisis has made us all very familiar with wearing a mask. Ironically the only other time we usually take to the streets wearing face coverings is Halloween. But with the pandemic still very much with us, Newham Council is urging residents to enjoy spooky fun in a safe and considerate way this year.

While trick or treating is an annual highlight for many young people, we’re asking children and families to think again this year, and to be conscious of the risks for transmission of the virus

If you want to dress up and go out, remember:

• Many people delving into bags or bowls of treats could spread the infection 
• Many hands touching doorbells and knockers could spread the virus from home to home 
• Walking around in groups of more than six is currently illegal in London, even outside
• You can only gather inside with the people you live with or those in your support bubble
• Many people, especially the elderly or vulnerable, will be avoiding contact with strangers and could be afraid of unsolicited visits, especially at night
• Don’t go inside the homes of others, and maintain social distancing with people you don’t live with
• Don’t knock at strangers’ doors.

There are, of course, lots of ways to still have fun and stay safe.

• Arrange individual visits to friends in your school bubble. If you do give treats, hand out individual bags of sweets rather than allowing children to rummage through a bowl or bag.
• You could of course avoid trick or treating altogether. Why not decorate your home and share pictures on social media with your friends? Perhaps organise someone to be a judge and award a prize for the best efforts.
• Watch a spooky movie – and keep all the treats for yourself!

Whatever you do, remember keeping yourself, your friends, your family and our community safe must be our priority. There will be many more Halloweens after we defeat this virus. If we don’t follow the guidance the consequences could be a real nightmare.