With Halloween finally upon us, the B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) wants those who are planning to trick-or-treat—or socialize and party—to do so responsibly and safely.

The BCCDC states on its website that because of the COVID-19 pandemic, British Columbians should skip parties altogether this year in favour of small gatherings with social groups and households to watch scary movies.

It says that if you do socialize tomorrow (October 31), you should keep it to no more than six people that you know personally, with no one allowed to bring guests.

Indoor gatherings should be in well-ventilated areas with open windows, with no passing around of food and treats, and no shared drinks, joints, or vapes.

If you can, the BCCDC advises, you should spend more time outside than inside.

The health agency says that trick-or-treaters should endeavour to stay within small groups of no more than six and to keep their distance from other groups of trick-or-treaters.

It also says to avoid areas that are crowded and to stay outdoors as much as possible. If indoors, a nonmedical mask may be necessary to help prevent transmission of the coronavirus.

Parents should also make sure children wash their hands before they go out and as soon as they return home, as well as before eating any collected treats and after handling any of their candies. Children should also avoid touching their face while handling treats.

For more information on how to keep yourself, your family, and your friends safe this Halloween, please visit the BCCDC website.