CLINTON — Trick or Treat, much like many other things, will be different this year because of COVID restrictions.  But, the annual kids’ activity is still on for this year in Clinton, and mayor Roger Cyrulik urges everyone to stay safe.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) issued guidelines for communities to follow this year when observing Halloween.  Mayor  Cyrulik covered those guidelines during Monday’s city council meeting and recommended residents follow them.

“We’ve had some questions on Trick or Treating this year,” Cyrulik said.  “The Illinois Department of Public Health has sent out some guidelines, and we’ll post these on our website.”

Cyrulik pointed out that the coronavirus was continuing to spread.

“So, we need to follow the basic ‘3 Ws’,” he said.  “Wash your hands, watch your distance, and wear a mask.”

Cyrulik covered the guidelines distributed by the IDPH.

Trick or Treat in Clinton will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Oct. 31.

From the IDPH

If you think you could have COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, do not participate in any in-person Halloween activities.

Trick-or-treating

Anyone participating in trick-or-treating, including those passing out candy, should maintain six feet of social distance and wear proper face coverings.

Consider leaving individually wrapped candy (spaced apart) on a table in driveways or in front of walkways, sidewalks, or any outdoor space where six feet of distance can be maintained.

A Halloween costume mask is not a substitute for a cloth mask. Ensure that breathing is not impaired if a cloth mask is worn under a costume mask.  If so, discard the costume mask.

Trick-or-treat in groups with household members only.

Candy collected during trick-or-treating should not be eaten until after hand-washing.

An alternative to traditional trick-or-treating is to set up in a large parking lot or other outdoor setting with tables with individually wrapped candy (spaced apart) where participants with a parent/guardian can parade past while still keeping six feet of distance and wearing a face covering.  It’s suggested to offer reserved time slots to limit everyone showing up at once.