Published: Wednesday 28 October 2020
Kensington and Chelsea residents are being encouraged to take a slightly different approach to Halloween this year to protect family, friends and neighbours as the rates of Coronavirus continue to increase in the borough and London as a whole.
Trick or treating this year is an unnecessary risk to take as door knockers, doorbells, sweet wrappers and bowls of sweets could all increase the risk of infection. We also need to think about protecting vulnerable residents who may be particularly anxious as a result of the pandemic and alarmed by repeated knocks on their door. If you are taking part in an activity outdoors you must never be with more than five other people.
Rather than the usual trick or treat, try fun and safe alternatives indoors with your family. Try your hand at pumpkin decorating or carving, an indoor pumpkin treasure hunt with sweets or treats as a surprise, giving your house a spook-tacular makeover or braving a hair-raising Halloween movie night at home.
This year remember the do’s and don’ts of being in a High (Tier 2) area of Coronavirus alert:
- You cannot meet anyone outside your family or support bubble inside
- Up to six people can meet outside if they maintain at least 2m social distancing
- Always follow the Hands Face Space advice:
- Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Wear a face covering if you are in shops or other enclosed places outside your home where you cannot maintain social distancing
- Always try to be at least 2m from other people outside your home and if you can’t wear a face covering
Cllr Sarah Addenbrooke, Lead Member for Public Health, added:
“Many of us enjoy celebrating Halloween and I know many children will be disappointed not to be able to go trick or treating, but we have to take account of the situation we find ourselves in.
“There are lots of different things we can do with our children to have fun in your home, pumpkin trails, apple bobbing or prizes for the best Halloween outfit or drawing to name a few. Please remember there are vulnerable people in our communities, and we don’t want to put them at risk, please don’t go trick or treating this year.”