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Trick or treat! It’s almost Halloween. But this year, Halloween may look a bit different than in years past. A different look doesn’t scare Halloween, though. Your costumes might change from year to year, so you look different each Halloween, too!

In many places, efforts are being made to prevent the spread of the pandemic (global outbreak) of COVID-19. Such methods often include social distancing, meant to limit contact between people and thus the spread of germs. But, limiting the spread of germs does not mean you can’t have any fun. Here are some tips—and tricks—for a safe and spooky Halloween.

If you plan on going door to door to collect candy, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before greeting others. Carrying hand sanitizer is easy, because you will already have a bag in which to carry your goodies! Plus, candy tastes better with clean hands. You don’t want any yucky germs with your delicious candy.

Another way to stay safe while going door to door is to incorporate a protective face mask into your costume. If you’re going as a unicorn, for example, wear a mask with rainbows. If you’re going as a cat, wear a mask with whiskers, a nose, and a mouth. You could also decorate a mask with the wrappers of your favorite candy, letting your neighbors know which treats you like best.

Not leaving the house this Halloween? You can still go trick-or-treating! Have members of your household stand behind the doors in your house—the front door, back door, bathroom doors, or bedroom doors, for instance. Knock on each door and yell, “Trick or treat!” Your family members can hand out candy. And the best part about trick-or-treating at your house? You get all the candy!

Many people carve jack-o’-lanterns for the spooky season. A traditional jack-o’-lantern is a hollowed-out pumpkin which has eyes, a nose, and a mouth carved into it. With adult supervision, you can carve a pumpkin, creating frightening or funny features. If you don’t want to carve a pumpkin, you can paint on a silly or scary face. One way to enjoy time with your friends may be a socially distanced pumpkin-carving party. Set up tables outdoors at least 6 feet (2 meters) apart and have each family bring their own supplies, or you can provide supplies for your guests. Make sure to disinfect such instruments as carving knives and paintbrushes.

However you choose to celebrate, we hope you have a safe and fun Halloween!