In this age of the Covid-19 pandemic, most of us are aware of the recommended safety measures pertaining to masks and social distancing if our children are going out trick-or-treating. But what do you do with the factory sealed candies collected during the evening?
We are all well aware that the virus can live on surfaces for a long time after it makes contact. So should we sanitize the candy wrappers before allowing our children to dig into their haul? Should the candy be set aside for a couple of days before our children gain access to them? Should plastic gloves be worn when touching the candy that’s brought home?
Unless the person who handed out the candy spent a lot of time handling “Your” candy while wiping their eyes, nose, or mouth, the chance of a wrapper clinging onto the virus is minimal. Most people simply open a huge bag of mini candies and dump them into a bowl.
Scientists said parents don’t need to wipe down or sanitize every candy wrapper when they return home from trick-or-treating, but if you’ll feel better by doing so, by all means have at it.
What you should do is remember all of the hygiene practices you have repeated over the past 9 months, wash your hands, and use common sense when handling any food items.
SAFE TRICK-OR-TREATING TIPS
- Wear a proper face mask; a costume mask is not enough.
- Do not enter anybody else’s home.
- Go with a small group, ideally just members of the same household.
- Don’t stall or congregate with others on the sidewalks.
- Reduce the time spent trick-or-treating.
- Avoid communal bowls of candy.
- Stay outdoors.