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As the 2023 Houma / Terrebonne Mardi Gras season is upon us, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff Tim Soignet announced that this is a great time to familiarize yourself with the rules and tips that can keep the parade atmosphere safe and enjoyable for everyone. Sheriff soignet said, “Mardi Gras season has been a part of Terrebonne Parish and our culture for as long as most of us can remember. I believe it goes without saying that as we have continued to grow and evolve over the years with implementation of new safety practices, and Mardi Gras is certainly no exception. The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office stands ready to protect our parish, residents, and visitors to ensure and safe prosperous Carnival Season for all.”
General Safety Tips:
· Park vehicles in secure areas and do not leave valuables in plain sight. Utilize the trunk to store valuables.
· Attend parades in groups and establish a well-known meeting place ahead of time in case anyone becomes separated.
· Make sure small children are always accompanied by an adult.
· Teach your children to stay calm if lost and go to a uniformed police officer.
Teach your child not to be afraid of police officers and if possible, take them up to 1 prior to the parade.
If no police officer is in your area teach your child to go to another parent with children for help.
· Do not wander down empty streets late at night or in the early morning hours. This is the time when you are more likely to be targeted for a crime. Stay in populated, well-lit areas, and travel in groups!
· If you must carry a purse, carry it across your torso and place important items in the front pocket.
· If you need police assistance during a parade, go to the nearest intersection and advise a uniformed police officer.
· Maintain a safe distance from floats and all participants of the parade.
Violations that are governed by law which could result in arrest:
· Never follow behind floats, bands, etc.
· Do not throw any object in the direction of floats, band members, or any parade participants.
· Glass containers are prohibited on the parade route.
· No underage drinking is allowed. Uniformed and plainclothes officers will be patrolling behind and within crowds to identify and arrest persons engaging in criminal activity.
· Do not cross the barricades for any reason.
· Bicycles, skateboards, and motorized scooters are prohibited from being ridden on the route.
· Materials known as "silly string" and "snap & pops" along with similar products are illegal. Possession of any of these products are strictly prohibited.
· All dogs present on the parade route must be secured with a leash, as well as a muzzle.
