Think safety on the road, on the water

Whether you’re on the road, in the water or dealing with fireworks this weekend, officials caution people to act with care.
St. Mary Parish Sheriff Mark Hebert reminds St. Mary Parish residents that a parish ordinance prohibits the use of fireworks in St. Mary Parish with the exception of tribal lands.
“I encourage residents to attend fireworks displays conducted by licensed professionals, like the one being held on the Atchafalaya this weekend,” Hebert said in a news release. “If you’re traveling to an area where the use of fireworks is allowed, be sure to take the proper safety precautions when using them.”
In areas where the use of fireworks is legal, Department of Children and Family Services encourages parents and caregivers to use extra caution with fireworks, especially around children. Improper handling of fireworks can cause burns and eye injuries.
“Accidents can happen very quickly. Knowing the risks involved and how to properly handle fireworks will decrease the likelihood of an injury,” said DCFS Secretary Suzy Sonnier in a news release. “Children should never be left alone with fireworks and should be supervised at all times to avoid injuries.”
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission 2013 Fireworks Annual Report, in a 30-day period around the Independence Day holiday, children under the age of 15 accounted for 40 percent of firework related injuries, the release stated.
If you plan to use fireworks, follow these tips from the CPSC:
—Never allow children to play with or light fireworks.
—Always read and follow all warnings and label instructions.
—The adult lighting the fireworks should always wear eye protection. No one should ever have any part of the body over the fireworks.
—Use fireworks outdoors only.
—Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
—Always have water handy, a garden hose and a bucket.
—Light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house. Also keep away from dry leaves and other flammable materials.
—Light only one firework at a time.
—Never throw or point fireworks at other people or animals.
—Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
—Never re-light a dud firework. Douse and soak them with water.
—Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and then putting them in the trash.
State Troopers also urge everyone to have a safe travel plan in place to make this holiday weekend relaxing, memorable, and safe for all.
Independence Day is one of the deadliest holidays of the year due to drinking and driving, according to a Louisiana State Police news release.
State police and law enforcement from across our state will be working together to remove impaired drivers from roadways and make sure that occupants of all ages are properly restrained.
This year, an anticipated 41 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more over the Fourth of July weekend. The increase in traffic volume combined with an increase in alcohol use tends to lead to more crashes, a news release stated.
“As Troopers, we work to ensure the safety of our highways every day,” said state police Superintendent Col. Mike Edmonson. “Troopers will partner with local agencies to remove impaired drivers from our roadways and protect against dangerous behavior that could potentially disrupt celebratory events.”
Troopers offered several tips to motorists:
—Ensure everyone is properly restrained for all seating positions, day and night.
—Never drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver.
—Avoid distractions while driving.
—Be courteous and patient while dealing with higher than normal traffic volumes.
State Police will target driving behaviors, including impaired driving, speeding, unrestrained occupants, aggressive driving, and distracted driving. Troopers will ticket drivers who choose not to follow these rules, the release said.
“The fatalities that occur on our highways are mostly preventable. It is the responsibility of all citizens to make smart choices both while in motor vehicles and while enjoying the holiday festivities,” Edmonson said.
Boaters planning trips on the waterways should also be aware that the Mississippi River and many of its tributaries will experience high water levels during the Fourth of July weekend, according to a U.S. Coast Guard Eighth District news release.
The Coast Guard recommends boaters assess the risks associated with high water and take appropriate precautions. This includes always wearing a lifejacket, double-checking that required equipment such as visual and audio distress signals, personal flotation devices and a fire extinguisher are present and in working condition, a news release stated. Never boat under the influence of alcohol and submit a float plan, the release stated.
High water levels increase river flow, creating stronger-than-usual currents and unforeseen eddies and rips, which are particularly hazardous, the release said.