New Orleans Mayor Expands Re-Entry for Entire 9th Ward

New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin announced that the entire Lower 9th Ward will be open for “Look and Leave” re-entry beginning Thursday, Dec. 1, 2005. Residents will now have access to their homes in all areas of the 9th ward.

“I want to thank the residents of the 9th Ward for their patience as we worked to make the neighborhood safe,” Nagin said. “We want people to come back, see their homes and collect personal items as the next step in the journey to rebuild their lives.”

The area will be open for visitation from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. No one can remain after dark; all city curfews are in effect. Residents will enter and exit the neighborhood via the St. Claude Avenue Bridge.

New Orleans Police Department and National Guard vehicles will patrol the streets if residents need assistance.

Returning residents will receive an information sheet that includes the following important tips:

* Use gloves, boots and coveralls. Wash all soiled clothing and equipment.

* Do not enter heavily damaged structures.

* Drink bottled water throughout the day to prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration.

* Protect yourself from mold and bacteria. Wear particulate masks. Extreme areas require the use of respirators. If an area is extremely moldy, stay away. Do not expose children or elderly residents to moldy buildings.

* Use insect repellant to prevent mosquito bites, as there may be more mosquitoes than normal.

* Watch for wild and domestic animals. Some of them are more aggressive than normal because of the stresses they have undergone. Disinfect any wounds and bites immediately and seek medical care as soon as possible.

* You should have a recent tetanus shot. Tetanus shots are good for 10 years. Booster shots are available at all open health clinics.