Gearing up for Mardi Gras

Decorations throughout the Bay Breeze Event Center add a festive Mardi Gras touch Jan. 15, 2015, at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. This year, Mardi Gras falls on Feb. 17, but the first parade of the carnival season is Jan. 31. For a complete list of events and parade routes in southern Mississippi, visit http://www.gulfcoast.org/visitors/events/mardigras/ (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Kemberly Groue)

Be alert to dangers at Mardi Gras parades

Published Jan. 26, 2015
By 81st Training Wing Safety Office

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The ultimate southern celebration, Mardi Gras season, is here again. Mardi Gras is the coast's largest free outdoor party.

Here are a few tips to make your Mardi Gras a safe and enjoyable event.

· Obey all "no parking" zones - illegally parked vehicles will be towed. Officials suggest that you arrive early to find parking close to the parade route.

· Don't carry open glass or metal containers in public.

· Cooperate with all law enforcement officials.

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

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

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

· 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.

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

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

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

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

· Don't drink and drive.

Be careful and have a safe and happy Mardi Gras!