Let the good times roll, but stay safe

Published Feb. 10, 2015
By 81st Training Wing Safety Office

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Mardi Gras is fast approaching the Gulf Coast and many of us will head to New Orleans, Mobile, or stay in the local area for all of the carnival fun. The 81st Wing Safety Office would like to give you a few tips to help you enjoy a safe carnival season.

o Ensure your phone is on and charged.

o Be a wingman to your friends and family.

o Make a plan. Before you go out, set a meeting time and rally point in case someone gets separated from the group.

o Drink responsibly. Pickpockets and criminals may take advantage of a drunk person's lack of awareness.

o Cabs are busy; wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

o Try not to attend alone; there's safety in numbers.

o Don't leave children, elderly or intoxicated friends or family members who may not be totally in control of their actions unattended.

o Watch your children closely. Small children should have name tags in the event they become lost.

o As with any large public event, pickpockets and purse snatchers may be active. Men shouldn't carry wallets in their back pockets. Don't wear expensive jewelry.

o Don't stand between a tractor and the float. Don't press too close to floats.

o Don't push others while trying to retrieve beads, coins and other Mardi Gras paraphernalia.

o Don't throw things at floats or marching units or harass them in any way.

o Take your time when leaving parking areas after the parade. Defensive driving is a must.

o Follow any instructions police may give you. It is unlawful to cross police barricades that line most parade routes.

o Carpool and expect heavy traffic and delays.

o Appoint a designated driver.

o Park only in legal parking spaces. Don't park too close to railroad tracks.

o Don't bring glass containers to the parades.

o Don't drink and drive.

The 2015 Carnival season in south Mississippi began Jan. 31 and ends with Mardi Gras on Feb. 17. This means increased traffic, alcohol consumption, and partying in the local area. Be on the lookout for drunk drivers late at night, especially around the casinos.

In order to make the occasion a safe one, obey city ordinances and follow these safety tips when you "let the good times roll!"

Gearing up for Mardi Gras