Michigan residents who were worried about their kids' ability to trick-or-treat this year can breathe a sigh of relief - officials with the state have said that trick-or-treating can happen, but people should be careful.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is suggesting some precautionary measures for kids, parents and people who are handing out candy to little ghosts and ghouls.

Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health for the state of Michigan said in a release,

The way we celebrate Halloween in Michigan will be different this year due to COVID-19. However, there are still many ways to celebrate safely. The guidance MDHHS issued today provides tips for trick-or-treaters and their parents along with homeowners who wish to hand out treats.

Many of these seems like no-brainers and align with the way that Michiganders have been operating since COVID-19 hit our state: masks, social distancing, and hand sanitizing.

The state says that parents should:

  • Talk to children about the changes this year and why they are happening.
  • Talk to children about social distancing and making sure that they stay six feet away from others that do not reside in their household.
  • Avoid congregating in large groups.
  • Wear a face covering over mouths and noses - Halloween costume masks do not count.
  • Consider doing some sort of neighborhood costume parade or trunk-or-treat as opposed to going door-to-door.

For those households who plan to hand out candy to the eager trick-or-treaters, the state suggests:

  • Using tape to mark six-foot increments between people on the path leading up to wear candy is being distributed.
  • Put a table between the candy giver and the candy receiver and be sure to sanitize that table often.
  • Consider handing out the candy in an open space (like a driveway) as opposed to having trick-or-treaters come to the door.

Halloween this year will offer and additional treat as it actually falls on a Saturday. Check with your local government regarding times for trick-or-treating where you live.

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