COLD LAKE – Cold Lake trick or treaters are being encouraged to participate in Halloween activities safely and responsibly this year.
The city won’t be imposing any further restrictions relating to COVID-19 when it comes to celebrations beyond those required by the province.
“We know that other municipalities are recommending against trick-or-treating this year or have taken steps to temporarily ban it,” noted city CAO Kevin Nagoya in a press release. “Since the pandemic began, we have been closely following the guidelines set out by Alberta Health. Given the consistently low number of active cases in Cold Lake, we’re leaving the decision up to families.”
Mayor Craig Copeland said in a press release, “What we’re asking is that those families and kids who want to go trick-or-treating, do it safely, don’t congregate in large groups, and respect the wishes of your fellow citizens. Every family is navigating the pandemic differently and you never know who is immune-compromised and potentially at a higher risk. Only go to houses with lights on and respect your neighbours.”
Cold Lake has no bylaws that impose a curfew on Halloween.
Those heading out to collect candy on Halloween night are encouraged to maintain social distancing of at least a metre or six feet between themselves and others who aren’t of the same family or cohort, wear a mask or face covering in addition to any costume where it’s not possible to keep a certain distance between yourselves and others, and bring hand sanitizer and use frequently. Those who aren’t feeling well or have possible COVID-19 symptoms are encouraged to stay home and not to participate in any Halloween activities.
For the latest information on Alberta’s response to the pandemic, including restrictions for gatherings and statistics of active and recovered cases by region, go to www.alberta.ca/covid19.
Robynne Henry, Bonnyville Nouvelle
