Agencies Working Together to Increase Security for Mardi Gras

Agencies Working Together to Increase Security for Mardi Gras

  • By Sydny Shepard
  • Feb 08, 2016

With thousands of people pouring into New Orleans for Mardi Gras, security is beefing up from the Port of New Orleans to the French Quarter and even parade routes. Local, state and federal officials says public safety remains the priority. Some in Louisiana are saying this is the most security at Mardi Gras since 9/11.

The first line of defense for Mardi Gras, which is usually celebrated from mid-January through early-February, is Customs and Border Protection Agents along with the U.S. Coast Guard who carefully inspect imported good for the sake of the celebrations. Beads, merchandise and float materials are carefully inspected upon arrival and prohibited items are confiscated.

Police barricades are in place to keep mobile transportation away from crowds of people enjoying the parades. This year, certain sections of the parade routes have been designated as “no throw zones” because of congestion and safety concerns.

Officials said the city's police force of more than 1,100 officers will be bolstered by 170 state troopers, 100 FBI agents and dozens of officers from nearby law enforcement agencies.

Those officers will be placed along parade routes and patrolling through neighborhoods. Along with their weapons, police will be wearing body cameras.

State police will also continue to check-in with the FBI and other agencies to make sure New Orleans and the State aren’t facing any possible security threats during the festivities.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • Brivo, Eagle Eye Networks Merge

    Dean Drako, Chairman of Brivo, the leading global provider of cloud-native access control and smart space technologies, and Founder of Eagle Eye Networks, the global leader in cloud AI video surveillance, today announced the two companies will merge, creating the world’s largest AI cloud-native physical security company. The merged company will operate under the Brivo name and deliver a truly unified cloud-native security platform. Read Now

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.