Yes, we love to celebrate life and have a great time. Louisiana has unmatched hospitality. With that in mind, the biggest advice we can offer you is: STAY ALERT. Enjoy yourself but be smart. Never accept drinks from strangers. Spiked drinks are still very much prevalent today.
It’s that time of the year again. Mardi Gras! Louisianans and tourists alike are indulging themselves in King Cake, crawfish, parades, beads, street dances, balls, and good times galore. The only thing we love to see more than people enjoying themselves is SAFETY. During Mardi Gras Season we encounter large crowds, increased traffic, and unfortunately, even drunk driving incidents. We can’t stress enough the importance of safety during Mardi Gras season.
Float riders, we haven’t forgotten about you. Review your parish/city regulations and laws pertaining to Mardi Gras float riders. In the “Big Easy” float riders are mandated by law to wear masks. Nothing compares to the thrill of participating in Mardi Gras as a float rider. Remember to abide by all safety measurements and keep an eye out for low-hanging branches. These are key tips for an enjoyable, safe Mardi Gras season.
Again, throughout the years we have seen an array of injuries. If we work together, we can make each parade, ball, and get together a safer experience.
This season we have compiled a list of Mardi Gras Safety Tips:
- Children of appropriate age should be taught to recite their name and a parent’s phone number if asked by law enforcement. Also, mark their name and your number on the inside of their clothing, for extra measure.
- Go to the same area to view parades if possible and teach your child a landmark to meet if separated.
- Teach your children to find a uniformed police officer if they get lost.
- Make sure your children understand to never talk to strangers.
- Never allow children in the street, try to find an area with barricades and stand behind them.
- Never follow behind floats, bands, etc. This includes running alongside floats.
- BEWARE OF THE HORSES!
- Travel in groups and be aware of your surroundings.
- Do not jump over the police barricades.
- Keep track of how many drinks you have consumed.
- NEVER drink & drive!