'Keep everybody safe:' Local doctor advises people to cancel trick-or-treating plans

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — With COVID-19 cases on the rise in Wisconsin, area health departments are sharing advice for trick-or-treating this Halloween. Many are urging families to re-think their plans.

“We do strongly recommend that you don’t do trick or treating this year,” Aurora Children’s Health Medical Director Dr. Kevin Dahlman said.

Dahlman says the risks outweigh the rewards.

“Of course you have a tough decision as a parent to make,” he said. “I know it’s no fun to say no to your children who want the free candy, but at the same time, we want to keep everybody safe in the community.”

Whether you’re handing out candy at your home or trick-or-treating with your kids, the level of exposure is what worries medical experts.

“We’re concerned because of course, you’ve multiplied your exposure by tenfold or hundredfold depending on how many trick-or-treaters you have,” he explained. “If you’re confronted with all of these people, one or two of them who have the virus, could pass it to you, so that’s where we’re concerned.”

The North Shore Health Department is recommending cities and villages don’t schedule trick-or-treat times because of the potential spread. Earlier this month, the City of Milwaukee said it is also not backing trick-or-treating this year.

In Racine, there will designated trick-or-treating hours, but the health department is warning people not to assume its a good idea.

“Look for those safe alternatives to keep your family and your children safe,” Dahlman said.

If you do choose to trick-or-treat, Dahlman said it is important to take precautions like social distancing and using hand sanitizer.

“If you’re a house that is giving out candy, find a way to do it safely where you are keeping that distance as well,” he said

Find more information about the Halloween guidelines in your area by CLICKING HERE.