With Mardi Gras season upon us, St. Tammany Fire District #1 would like to remind its citizens of some safety tips to follow while partaking in the festivities. Parades can be fun, but there are also many hazards along the parade routes.
Mardi Gras Safety Tips
Watch out for traffic:
• Be aware of your surroundings when driving or walking near parades and parade traffic.
• Never run in between or chase floats for beads or throws.
• Never reach under a float for a throw, even when the float is stopped.
• Clear the path for the band and other marching groups as they go by.
• Do not approach horses in the parade unless the rider indicates that it is okay.
• Do not approach a float other vehicles in the parade until it comes to a stop.
• Make sure a child’s vision is not obstructed by a mask.
• Report intoxicated drivers to proper authorities.
Throw me something:
• Be alert for beads and trinkets thrown during the parade.
• Wear sunglasses during the day to protect your eyes from the sun and throws.
• Keep all beads, small trinkets, snapping pops and plastic bags out of reach of small children.
• Buy only appropriate toys from vendors. If a toy fits in the cardboard cylinder of a roll of tissue paper, it is a choking hazard for children.
Getting the good stuff:
• Do not place ladders in intersections or fasten ladders together.
• The distance of a ladder from a curb should be at least equal to the ladder’s height.
• Do not climb on or over barricades.
• Do not carry anyone on your shoulders.
• Do not hang from floats or other vehicles in the parade.
Don’t get lost:
• Never leave children unattended.
• Always have a meeting place in case anyone gets lost from your group.
• Police officers can direct parents to lost child stations.