Halloween advice to NI public is to have fun without leaving your home

All of the Province’s large scale fireworks displays have been cancelled and the Public Health Agency has advised against visiting nearby houses to trick or treat.

Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: “The past six months have been tough for everyone, so it is important that we take the opportunity to have fun and enjoy ourselves when we can, and Halloween is the perfect opportunity to do this safely.

“With just a bit of creativity, we can think of new ways to have fun at Hallowe’en which also keep us safe from COVID-19.”

Suggestions from the PHA include having a virtual party online with other families or relatives, organising a treat hunt around your own home or garden, making drawings to display in the window, or watching your favourite film.

Dr Waldron added: “We do not advise continuing the tradition of bobbing for apples this year or going outside to trick or treat within the community, as these are not safe practices this year, as they increase the risk of infection.

“Sharing of food and sweets can also spread the COVID-19 virus. Face-to-face interactions with older and vulnerable neighbours could also put them at risk.

“We want people to have fun, but to not become complacent or risk the health of themselves and others by going against guidelines or regulations.

In the city of Londonderry which is famed for its Halloween celebrations, a series of online events replace the usual street party.

Mayor Brian Tierney, who is isolating at home after being identified as a close contact of a family member who tested positive for the virus, has asked the public to celebrate Halloween from home.

He said: “Derry is the home of Halloween and it’s a huge time for celebration across our city and district but it’s important that we do that in a way that keeps our community safe during this uncertain time.

“I’m appealing to the public to celebrate at home with your family, stay safe and do all you can to protect each other.

“Council are hosting an exciting Halloween programme online including a number of interactive activities that families can get involved in.

“If we can keep social interactions to a minimum in the coming weeks I believe that it will allow us to enjoy a better Christmas that we can spend with our closest family and friends.”