Tracking Tri-County trick-or-treating

Oct. 29—HENDERSON — It's trick-or-treat time, and local organizations and municipalities are offering opportunities for the tricksters to have a safe and happy experience.

In Henderson, downtown trick-or-treating is scheduled to take place on Monday from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tracy Madigan, director of the Henderson Downtown Development Commission, said downtown businesses will be handing out candy. And some businesses not located in the downtown area will be setting up tables along Garnett Street to distribute candy.

Madigan said that in earlier years, more than a thousand people came downtown to have fun and bring their kids to enjoy the holiday. COVID-19-related restrictions have been discontinued, she said, adding that being outdoors reduces the risk of transmitting the virus.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention published Halloween guidelines for 2022. Although the prevalence of COVID-19 has eased, gatherings such as those for Halloween are not totally risk-free. CDC suggests:

Stay home if you're sick.

Get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms.

Take precautions in crowded or indoor events, like making a protective mask part of your costume.

For indoor celebrations, ensure good ventilation.

Wash your hands frequently.

In Oxford, the city will hold a "Spooktacular Candy Stroll" in the downtown district between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Monday. Lauren Roberson, executive director of the Granville County Chamber of Commerce, said businesses throughout the downtown Oxford district are participating.

In Warrenton, Town Administrator Robert Davie said Warrenton celebrated Fright Night last weekend. But, anticipating more trick-or-treating on Halloween, the Warrenton Police Department issued guidelines to ensure safety. They suggested that kids trick-or-treat while it is still light outside, that they carry a flashlight and wear light-colored or reflective costumes and that they take care crossing streets. Advice for parents: Check your children's candy before they eat it.

An added piece of advice: Watch for the Warrenton police cars. They are rumored to be handing out candy.