Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Mardi Gras Survival Guide


by Lisa Morgan, Communications Associate, American Red Cross North Texas Region

Mardi Gras is here and we thought we'd offer a guide of sorts to help all Carnival participants near and far enjoy the festivities.

Just like in life, one should always start with a plan. So plan ahead. Plan which parades you're going to attend and a safe route to and from the parade, remember to consume beverages in moderation, as bathrooms are a little scarce along the parade routes. Keep some hand sanitizer or the cleaning wipes with you so you can keep your hands nice and clean. You definitely don’t want to catch a cold or flu after having a good time.

Mardi Gras is the season of excess and one person's excess can be another's crazy, so embrace the craziness. There are but a few times in life when we can let go and embrace abandon and this is surely one of them.  If the craziness is just too much and there is a need for psychological first aid, the Red Cross has that covered.

Go with the flow, move with the crowd and not against it. Always use caution when crossing streets and don't come out suddenly from between cars.

Dress up, besides Halloween how many times a year can you truly justify being in costume. Just be cognizant of the weather and the fact that you will be in costume for hours.

Find the perfect spot to watch the parades. It’s best if your hands are free and not occupied so when you yell “throw me something, Mister,” you can safely and confidently catch the beads or trinkets.

Remember to hydrate a cool morning can lead to a balmy afternoon. Just incorporate a few of the summer safety tips: sunscreen, lip balm, a hat and drinking water.

Download the first aid app because, well, with a host of people, anything can happen and it is better to be prepared than not!!


Laissez les bons temps rouler! Let the good times roll!

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