Don’t Put off Household Cleaning Chores

You’d think that the work-from-home revolution that launched alongside the #pandemic would inspire people to #clean more. But there are many household #cleaning chores people put off because they just don’t like to do them, says a survey released by homebuilder Lombardo Homes. No. 1 on the list is #cleaning the bathroom, followed closely by #washing dishes, doing laundry, cleaning the fridge and doing yardwork. While 85% of survey respondents admit they avoid doing chores they don’t like, the pandemic has made a majority “more diligent” about cleaning their homes.

Host an Outdoor Scary Movie Night

If you have decent weather, one good way to celebrate Halloween in a safe, socially distanced manner is to host an outdoor movie night. All you need is a digital projector, a screen, blankets and chairs, and some seasonal treats and beverages. If it’s a kids’ party, Milwaukee Mom suggests titles such as Hocus Pocus, Ghostbusters, Addams Family and It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. If you’re hosting adults only, you can go gorier with classics such as Halloween and Friday the 13th or any number of spooky genre flicks. #SociallyDistanced #HalloweenTips

Try an Outdoor Trunk-or-Treat

The Trunk-or-Treat has become “a popular alternative to trick-or-treating” in many areas during the pandemic, says The Curious Frugal. Families put on their costumes, decorate the trunks of their cars and meet at an outdoor location to celebrate and exchange treats. Add a spooky soundtrack, and it’s almost as good as going door-to-door — only safer. “There is a middle ground between doing everything and not being safe or careful, and canceling #Halloween completely,” the story says. #SociallyDistanced #HalloweenTips

Mask Up for a Safe Halloween

Reasonable precautions to observe as you and the family celebrate #Halloween this year include wearing mask to reduce the chance of transmission, says The Conversation. Kids can wear them under their costumes, or incorporate them into the costume itself; adults should wear them when dispensing treats. Have children wash their hands or use sanitizer frequently, especially before eating candy. Celebrating outside reduces the risk of anyone transmitting the virus, and those exhibiting symptoms of illness should get tested and skip the celebrations altogether. #SociallyDistanced #HalloweenTips

How to Hand Out Treats at a Distance

Celebrating a second Halloween under COVID won’t be quite as scary since so many Americans have now been #vaccinated. But common sense will still rule the day: Try to maintain a socially distanced six feet between yourself and strangers when giving out treats, and celebrate outdoors if possible. Cutefetti suggests using a grabber or tongs to hand out candy (no homemade treats, please — only prepackaged ones), or make grab bags to toss to the neighborhood kids or set out for the taking. If you’re feeling handy, you can build a Halloween candy chute for dispensing treats. #HalloweenTips