Baton Rouge, La. (September 4, 2026) — As Louisianans make plans to enjoy the long Labor Day weekend, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is reminding and urging families to make heat safety and water safety a priority. Whether spending time at the pool, on the open water, or participating in outdoor activities, a few simple precautions can help prevent serious injuries and illnesses — and save lives.
“Labor Day is a time for families across Louisiana to enjoy the outdoors, and we want the memories of holiday weekends to be good ones, not overshadowed by preventable tragedies,” said LDH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. “We urge everyone to take simple but important precautions: protect yourself, family, friends, and neighbors from extreme heat, stay vigilant around water, and make a plan that makes safety a priority. These simple steps can save lives and help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.”
Heat safety
Louisiana’s late-summer temperatures can be dangerous, especially for children, older adults, and anyone spending extended time outside. LDH encourages residents to take the following steps to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- Never leave children or pets in a parked car — even for a few minutes.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and use sunscreen.
- Check on neighbors, especially older adults or those without air conditioning.
Water safety
With many families heading to pools, lakes, beaches, and boats over the holiday weekend, LDH urges everyone to stay vigilant around water:
- Always supervise children closely when they are in or near water.
- Stay within arm’s reach of young children and inexperienced swimmers.
- Ensure pools are secured with proper fencing and locked gates.
- Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or participating in water sports.
- Designate a sober operator for all boating activities.
- Be aware of changing weather conditions and avoid swimming in strong currents or unsafe areas.
- Be aware of water conditions that may make open water unsafe.
A safe weekend starts with simple steps
By practicing heat safety and water safety throughout the long weekend, families can help ensure that Labor Day celebrations end on a positive note. LDH encourages residents to explore additional resources at ldh.la.gov and the LDH resources below: