Children in Voorhees will be able to trick or treat between 3 and 7 p.m. on Halloween.
The township and the state Department of Health have issued guidelines for residents to follow in light of COVID-19. While Gov. Phil Murphy approved trick-or-treating for this year, state officials advise residents not to let their guard down regarding safety precautions they’ve followed up to this point.
“In communities across our state, Halloween is more than just a fun activity, but a community and family tradition,” said Murphy. “This guidance offers the appropriate public health and safety protocols to ensure that everyone has the chance to enjoy Halloween in a safe and responsible manner.”
For all Halloween activities, social distance, mask wearing, proper hand sanitizing and gathering limits should be observed. For trick-or-treating, the state recommends groups be confined to current household members and that they limit the number of houses visited.
The state health department also has recommendations for residents to hand out treats while mitigating the risk of COVID transmission. They include arranging individually packaged candy so trick-or-treaters don’t grab candy in the same bowl.
“The health department annually recommends Halloween safety tips such as carrying glow sticks or flashlights while trick-or-treating and having parents check the candy. However, this year is different from any other years,” said Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli.
“The health department’s guidance provides steps parents and communities can take to ensure safe and responsible trick-or-treating and other Halloween activities.”
Voorhees Township offers printable door hangers to residents indicating whether they will give out candy: Purple identifies homeowners who will give out treats and yellow indicates those who will not.
In the event residents are unable to print out the signs, both door hangers are available at the Voorhees Town Center at Town Hall, the Voorhees Police Department, the Kirkwood and Kresson fire departments, the township post office, the Voorhees Animal Orphanage and the Animal Welfare Association.
In his weekly message, Mayor Michael Mignogna urged residents to follow social distancing and mask wearing guidelines on the holiday.
“Traditional Halloween celebrations often involve crowds, close contact and activities in closed spaces,” he noted. “Outdoor activities are recommended. Please wear masks that cover the nose and mouth. Costume masks are not an acceptable substitute for cloth or disposable masks. Please respect social distancing guidelines and wash hands frequently.”
