As Hallowen inches closer and closer, most students would normally be thinking about fun fall activities. As a result of the global pandemic, however, most people, including teenagers, will be staying inside and not dressing up for Halloween this year. 

   “Well, last year it wouldn’t be as scary so long as there was an adult in your group,” said Elli Cabello, senior. “But this year I think it would be even harder to stay safe.” 

   The modern tradition of trick or treating started in the 1920s. According to Metro.co.uk, small children wearing horrifying realistic skulls on their heads, skeletons riding horses and a number of unidentifiable animal masks seem to have been the order of the day during that decade. 

   “I don’t even put that much effort into my costumes,” said Landen Wilhelms, sophomore. “I would just buy a costume or I would make my own. Last year  I just wore my normal clothes and some special effects makeup. I also liked just being a kid and having nothing to worry about. It was just a night to have fun and be with friends and family and eat candy.”

   According to WIFR.com, anyone participating in trick-or-treating this year, including those passing out candy, should maintain 6-feet of social distance and wear proper face coverings. Other suggestions for safety this Halloween from WIFR.com include the following:

• Consider leaving individually wrapped candy (spaced apart) on a table in driveways or in front of walkways, sidewalks, or any outdoor space where 6-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.

   “I am scared for my son because you can’t put faith in complete strangers,” said Mrs. Beth Austin, Art teacher. “I am afraid they (people who will be giving out candy) might not take precautions to stay healthy, like washing their hands.”

   Trick-or-treaters are hopeful that this year’s Halloween activities can be enjoyed even though safety is at the forefront of everyone’s mind.

   “I really like Halloween so I hope it doesn’t get canceled,” said Wilhelms. “But we should probably wear a mask if you can’t  stay six feet apart from someone  while you are out.”