Attending a Gathering: Make your celebration safer. In addition to following the steps that everyone can take to make the Holidays safer, take these additional steps while attending a family gathering.

1. Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils.
2. Wear a mask, and safely store your mask while eating and drinking.
3. Avoid going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled, such as in the kitchen.
4. Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets, and disposable items like food containers, plates, and utensils.

Hosting a Holiday Gathering: If having guests to your home, be sure that people follow the steps that everyone can take to make the Holidays safer. Other steps you can take include:

1.  Have a small outdoor meal with family and friends who live in your community.
2. Limit the number of guests.
3. Have conversations with guests ahead of time to set expectations for celebrating together.
4. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use.
5. If celebrating indoors, make sure to open windows.
6. Limit the number of people in food preparation areas.
7. Have guests bring their own food and drink.

If sharing food, have one person serve food and use-single-use options, like plastic utensils.

Holiday Traveling:  Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading     COVID-19. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others.

If you do travel:

1.  Check travel restrictions before you go.
2. Get your flu shot before you travel.
3. Always wear a mask in public settings and on public transportation.
4. Stay at least 6 feet apart from anyone who is not in your household.
5. Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
6. Avoid touching your mask, eyes, nose, and mouth.
7. Bring extra supplies, such as masks and hand sanitizer.
8. Remember always wear a mask.
9. Stay at least 6 feet away from others who do not live with you.
10. Also wash your hands.

For additional foods, health, and nutrition information, contact Shelina Bonner, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, North Carolina Cooperative Extension – Greene County Center at (252) 747-5831.

Source: Everyone can Make Thanksgiving Safer