Middletown Gives Tips On How Halloween Can Safely Proceed

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Patch asked, and Middletown Twp. is not officially weighing in either way on trick or treating this year.

But Gov. Murphy did say Halloween can still proceed in New Jersey.

On the town website, Middletown shared these suggestions from the state on how to have a safe Halloween in 2020 — and yes, trick or treating is still OK!

Outdoor trick or treating: Those who plan to trick-or-treat should limit their groups to current household members, consider staying local and limit the number of houses on their route. Social distancing should be practiced by all who are not in the same household.

For those putting out treats:

Good option: Limit interaction or contact with trick-or-treaters, wear a mask when individuals come to the door, and regularly wash hands.

Better option: Leave a treat bowl on a porch or table or in a place where it may be easily accessed while adhering to social distancing requirements.

Best option: Arrange individually packaged candy so trick or treaters can grab and go without accessing a shared bowl.

Wear a face mask. Costume masks are not an acceptable substitute but you can wear a costume mask on top of your regular health mask.

Children under two do not have to wear a mask.

For outdoor Trunk or Treats:

Limit the number of participating cars to ensure adequate space for social distancing and minimize crowds. Ensure outdoor area has sufficient space per car to avoid overcrowding and to allow adequate space for social distancing.

Follow the outdoor gatherings limitations in effect at the time.

Design event in a long line, rather than a circle to ensure social and physical distancing to discourage crowding.

Consider having assigned times or multiple shifts to minimize crowding during event.

Halloween parties: Avoid large indoor or outdoor parties

Haunted houses, hayrides and corn mazes are OK, but indoor haunted houses should be avoided at all costs