Trick-Or-Treating In Ontario Is Actually Happening This Year But These Are The Rules

It's time to stock up on candy and dust off your Halloween decorations because trick-or-treating is happening this year!

Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario's chief medical officer of health, announced that trick-or-treating will take place this year in Ontario with some guidance.

So before you head out, here are some things that you need to know.

Trick-or-treating

"Trick-or-treating should take place outdoors as much as possible. Be creative, fashion a face-covering into your Halloween costume design, but remember a costume mask is no substitute for a proper face covering," Moore said.

"Do not overcrowd the doorsteps, take turns, keep interactions brief, maintain physical distancing as much as possible."

Moore also asked that children refrain from yelling "too exuberantly" to minimize the risk of aerosolization.

However, a new Leger and the Association for Canadian Studies poll warns that there could be fewer houses participating in the festivities this year. In fact, only 46% of Ontarians said that they would be handing out candy.

Homeowners handing out candy

The Ontario government also has some tips for homeowners to follow if they are planning on handing out candy this year.

Residents are being asked to keep trick-or-treating encounters short and to wear a face mask if physical distancing can't be achieved.

On top of this, only hand out packaged treats and clean your hands often throughout the night.

Halloween parties

Those thinking about attending or throwing Halloween parties are asked to follow the same rules of social gatherings, keeping in mind that only 25 people are allowed to gather indoors and 100 outdoors.

Face masks should be worn if you are gathering with anyone who is not vaccinated or partially vaccinated, and windows should be left open for ventilation if gathering indoors.

Ontario's top doctor is also telling residents to stay home if they feel unwell, even with mild symptoms.