NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WKBW) — For many in Western New York, the COVID-19 pandemic is the reason many parents say they’re opting out of trick-or-treating for their kids this year.
“We just want to play it safe,” said Carrie Gonzalez, who says she is not taking her kids trick-or-treating.
The witches, gouls and goblins plan to be out, just not on the streets. Many parents we talked with say they feel uncomfortable with the house to house tradition this year.
“There’s a lot of uncertainty,” said Jackie Hoffman, who lives in Niagara Falls. “You don’t know where people have been or who they have been around.”
Other parents we talked with say, bring on the treats—but safely.
“We will wear our masks, use lots of hand sanitizer and make the best of it,” said Donna Wheaton.
“I just want her to get the experience,” said Kiona Smith. “I’m probably going to throw the candy away, but I want her to get the experience and be out.”
The CDC recommends finding additional ways to celebrate this year, like a small house party or a scavenger hunt. If you plan on going trick-or-treating, the CDC says wear a mask, stay 6ft apart and if you’re handing out candy, make sure it is individually wrapped.
