Masked-Up Holiday

Masked-Up

Thanksgiving

Don’t let the pandemic take the happy out of your holidays. By Quintavia McKay

The novel coronavirus pandemic has halted many gatherings, from birthdays to reunions to social outings;, and now that fall is here, it may put a damper on the holidays. For those families that value quality time, we encourage you to stay safe as the holidays are swiftly approaching. To that end, here are a few tips for you and your family to have a safe and successful holiday season.

Go Virtual

Your family tradition can be held on video communication sites like Zoom or Skype. You can send out an invitation with a link with all details pertaining to this virtual event. Figure out when everyone is available and make your plans for a fun, safe event. Many ideas can take place with a virtual gathering. Some include:

Virtual paint party Movie watching Dance battle Game night

Host Outdoor Gatherings

It may sound crazy, but Florida has nice weather during our fall and winter seasons. Outdoor gatherings during the pandemic lessen the risk of contracting the virus because outside has better ventilation. Being outdoors creates more room for social distance as well. For chilly or humid weather, a tent, chairs and tiki torches will help keep away mosquitoes and provide warmth and comfort to the gathering. Still, be sure to enforce social distancing and proper sanitation methods, as this is a moderate-risk activity.

Invite a Limited Number of People

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the smaller the crowd, the less the risk. Though the slogan is “the more, the merrier,” your family can still be merry and bright with a smaller crowd. Immediate family is better than none at all. Invite those close to you and those who strictly adhered to expert guidelines on staying safe. Though “limited number” varies, be sure that you’re able to spread out in your chosen space properly.

Enforce Wearing Masks

It may seem absurd to make family and friends wear masks, but your safety and health come first. If you choose to have these in-person gatherings, the proper mask protection is essential. Supplying each guest with the proper mask, such as a KN95 or surgical mask, will help lessen the chance of possible spreading. Ensure the masks are worn over the nose and mouth at all times and cover the skin. While wearing masks, do not forget to follow proper handwashing and sanitation methods.

Remote Family Dinner

If your family traditions do not include a potluck, having one family member cook can make the whole thing easier. The cook can prepare and deliver the meal to families’ homes so that everyone can enjoy a dinner video call while social distancing. This event can still consist of regular dinner traditions and even add more excitement considering the circumstances. Have love and laughter while following necessary safety precautions. If you are the person delivering, wear gloves and a mask as you are conducting deliveries.

Reduce Travel

If your family traditions include traveling, please be aware of any methods taken by your preferred travel method. It is safer to stay home and enjoy household activities, but if you must travel, make sure you follow CDC-recommended safety precautions of mask usage, sanitization and social distancing; and refrain from touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Consider the wait time, proximity to others and any other complications that may arise. Going from one place to another can increase the spread of COVID-19.