It’s the second COVID-19 Halloween and while we’re still very much in the pandemic, some are saying this one might feel slightly more normal.
“We have a much different situation this year than last year when no one was vaccinated,” said Caroline Colijn, a professor at Simon Fraser University and Canada 150 research chair. “Vaccines weren’t approved yet so we’ve come a long way since then.”
But, as children get ready to head out trick or treating, health officials are still urging social distancing, masking up and hand sanitizing, especially for children under 12 who are not yet vaccinated.
They are also asking people to keep things outside and keep them small as B.C. currently has one of the highest transmission rates of COVID-19 in the country.
“I think all of the creative things we saw last year, bring it on again this year,” said Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry.
In 2020, people crafted up chutes, slides and even individually wrapped candy bars in order to allow for social distancing.
Today, Langford Fire Rescue handed out candy drive-thru style for the second year in a row.
“This is kind of a spin on our normal Halloween festivities, normally we have it at our fire halls in Langford but because of COVID we’ve moved to Westshore Town Centre,” said Paul Obersteller, a Captain with Langford Fire Rescue.
Dozens of cars lined the parking lot, getting an early start on their candy collecting.
Local police departments are also reminding people fireworks are only allowed with a permit, to drive with caution tonight, wear bright clothing, reflective material and carry a flashlight if you are out trick-or-treating.
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Hannah Lepine
