Creston, BC – October 23, 2020: In accordance with federal and provincial COVID-19 pandemic health and safety guidance, Creston Fire Rescue has made the difficult decision to cancel their “Halloween Safety Stop” this year. “The firefighters look forward to this event every year, and we enjoy having the community come together at the fire hall,” said Fire Chief Jared Riel, “This Halloween, please watch out for the little ghosts and goblins, remember to dress warmly and be visible if you’re heading out.”
While Creston Fire Rescue will not be hosting the safety stop, other Halloween activities lend themselves to the COVID-19 recommendations from the Provincial Health Officer. For example, outdoor trick or treating allows for physical distancing and costumes may incorporate non-medical masks into their design. For the Creston Valley Residents who are ill, self isolating, or are, for any reason, not able to receive trick-or-treaters this year, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) recommends turning out your porch lights and asks that trick-or-treaters pass by homes with no lights on.
“This Halloween is unlike others we’ve had in the Creston Valley. The Town of Creston understands that some of our residents will be excited to participate in trick-or-treating, while others may not feel comfortable doing so. How ever you choose to celebrate Halloween, please be respectful of your neighbours, friends and family,” Mayor Toyota stated.
As you plan your Halloween festivities this year, take extra care and follow the guidance provided by the BC Centre for Disease Control, including the following tips on trick-or-treating safely:
- Respect homes by staying away if the lights are out.
- Keep to your local neighbourhood this year.
- Trick-or-treat in a small social group, stick to six people.
- Wash your hands before you go out, when you get home, and before eating treats.
- Get creative handing out treats, use tongs, a baking sheet or make a candy slide to give more space when handing out candy.
- Plan to hand out individual treats instead of offering a shared bowl.
- Only hand out sealed, pre-packaged treats.
- Wear a non-medical mask that covers your nose and mouth when handing out treats.
- If you can, stand outside your door to hand out treats. Then kids won’t need to touch the door or doorbell.
Town of Creston Council and staff appreciate your continued support, kindness and perseverance throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information from the BCCDC on celebrating Halloween please visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/halloween.
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