​Mardi Gras arrives this year on February 14- 25. Let’s make it a festive holiday but not a deadly one. Take these safety steps.

• Be a defensive driver: Even if you don’t drink and drive, realize that other people will. If you see vehicles going over the speed limit or weaving, avoid them. Obey all traffic and speed laws yourself. If you are driving near a Mardi Gras parade, realize that there may be delays due to the crowds and parades. Don’t become impatient. Don’t try to make stop lights you aren’t going to make. Also, don’t try to drive through the crowds too quickly.
• Don’t drink and drive: It’s fine to enjoy yourself on Mardi Gras. But if it involves alcohol, even if it’s only one drink, don’t drive. Take an Uber or have a designated driver picked out before the festivities begin.
• Consider public transportation: Public transportation may be the safest option to avoid intoxicated driving and being tempted to drive while inebriated.
• Be aware of inebriated people: Drinking is a huge part of Mardi Gras, and few alcohol vendors question whether the latest customer has already had enough or too much to drink throughout the night. This usually results in a constant supply of aggressive drunks and inebriated drivers who put everyone in danger. Being aware of this can help you take precautionary measures to ensure your safety.
• Be aware of the floats: While floats may seem harmless enough, they can be quite dangerous. Their size can cause them to crash in certain situations. Unsecured float components have broken off or become loose and struck innocent bystanders.
• Be on the lookout for beads and trinkets:  A large part of Mardi Gras fun comes when float riders throw beads and trinkets at celebrators. Tossed objects have been known to strike spectators in the head, eyes or face and even knock them unconscious. Trying to scoop beads from the path of oncoming floats and tractors can be ill-advised as well. Add to that the fact that the beaded strings come apart easily and are attractive to small children.
•  Walk defensively: Danger during Mardi Gras is not limited to those behind a wheel. Drunk drivers often hit pedestrians in the street. Accidents have occurred when drivers drive into crowds. You can also be hit as a pedestrian by drunk, distracted, or even angry drivers, who are growing impatient with the crowds. Be very careful when walking. When crossing the street, make sure no cars are coming from any direction. Make sure you can make it safely across the street before crossing.

Following these steps can help ensure that you are able to enjoy the wonderful holiday while still keeping safe.