Ten Tips to a Safer Mardi Gras

It’s Carnival time! When the good times to roll, make sure that safety is a top priority.

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At LWCC, we celebrate the events and traditions that make Louisiana a great place to live and work. There are numerous unique ways to enjoy the Mardi Gras festivities. LWCC encourages you to be prepared to participate safely. Along with the large crowds, there are several safety hazards that can arise during Mardi Gras. To help, LWCC’s Safety Services has put together ten tips to keep you and others safe.

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1. Plan and prepare.

Mardi Gras festivities often provide many distractions, causing groups to get separated from one another. To avoid getting lost or wandering alone, determine a designated meeting place should your group split up.  

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2. Follow parking parameters.

Limited parking along parade routes makes carpooling or utilizing a driving service a valuable choice. Should you drive, ensure the area you’re in is designated for parking and remove any valuables or personal items before leaving the vehicle. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, make note of your location, using street names or nearby landmarks.

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Pro Tip: Try dropping a pin or snapping a quick pic of street signs or landmarks to help you remember where you parked.

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3. Avoid distracted driving.

While traveling to and from a parade, be vigilant of pedestrians while traveling through streets and stay alert as there may be potential detours due to street and road closures associated with the parade route.

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4. Keep little ones close-by.

Children are small, quick, and can easily get lost in a crowd. It is important that children are watched closely and never left unattended. Should your child get separated from you or the group, be sure they know their name, phone number, and address, instructing them to quickly find a police officer for help.

Pro Tip: Ensure your little ones always find their way back to you by tucking your contact information in their pockets - keeping them safe and connected, no matter what.

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5. Stay a safe distance from floats.

While bright and beautiful, floats can also be dangerous, especially while in motion. It is recommended to stay a minimum of 30-feet away and advised to never approach or chase after a float for throws.

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6. Respect boundaries.  

Parade barricades are there for protection. Do not move or go around any barricades. Children should also be advised not to climb on, over, or under barricades as this poses multiple hazards for them and others.

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7. Keep parade ladders safe.

If you’re planning to use a ladder for small children, place the ladder equal distance from the street as the ladder is tall. Never leave a child on the ladder unattended and be mindful of others that may be around the ladder.

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8. Eyes on the throws.

While chanting, “Throw me something, mister!” it’s important to stay alert for hard-flying throws that may cause struck-by injuries. When moving about the route, be cautious of beads that maybe on the ground as they can be a tripping hazard.  

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9. Be aware of your surroundings.

Become familiar with the area you are in. If something seems unsafe or suspicious, notify a police officer.

Pro Tip: Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings to ensure a fun and safe experience.

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10. Enjoy responsibly.  

If consuming alcohol, know your limits, utilize a designated driver, and ensure at least one member of your party remains sober. Keep yourself and others safe and never drive under the influence.

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