In just a couple of days, throws will fly as families across Baldwin County line city streets in hopes of catching toys, beads and treats from passing floats.

While the Mardi Gras festival season is full of joy and celebration, it is important to be mindful of safety practices to keep the parades cheerful.

City of Foley Fire Chief Joseph Darby said one of the his best tips is to come to the parades prepared for any type of weather.
"The biggest thing for us is to use good, safe practices with the weather. Temps can get pretty cold. People need to make sure they dress properly," Darby said.
Darby also stressed that while it may be fun for children to chase floats trying to collect prizes, it is important for parents to keep a watchful eye over their kids.

"We have seen issues in the past with the spirit of the season getting too close to folks and running risks with their children. It's important for folks to adhere to the guidelines within the physical barriers," Darby said. "It's an exciting time, but you can't let the excitement overtake common sense with vehicles, and some drivers have a hard time maneuvering such large floats, so it's best to give them space."

Darby said that while most parades have barricades, there are a few smaller floats that will not be barricaded but will be protected by closed intersections.

Fairhope Police Department Lt. Shane Nolte echoed Darby's concerns and suggested parade-goers stay alert and aware of their surroundings.

"We don't typically have a lot of problems around here, but you still get your drinking, and even though there are supposed to be alcohol restrictions you never know how a person is going to react," Nolte said. "Keep an eye on your kids so they don't chase a float, and don't leave anything visible in your car when parking."

Nolte said that during the Mardi Gras season, every police officer at the department is on duty surveilling parades.

"Every officer we have is working those events. There is an officer on every corner," Nolte said. "Come early and stay late, and try to walk away from a problem."

Everyone knows that indulging in a drink or two is one of the pillars of the Mardi Gras season, however both Darby and Nolte recommend reading up on the alcohol guidelines and restrictions before heading out to a parade.

"For us, open alcohol is not permitted on (Foley) city streets," Darby said. "However, some areas like OWA (in Foley) will allow it since that is technically an entertainment district."

Other areas may strictly enforce alcohol restrictions.

"If we see someone drunk, there is a possibility they are going to jail for public intoxication," Nolte said about the Fairhope parades. "It's a heavily enforced alcohol ban, but if we see alcohol we generally give them an opportunity to pour it out."