NOPD Chief Michael Harrison has warned those who plan to attend Carnival parades or visit the French Quarter to leave their guns at home.
"Do not bring firearms to French Quarter or parades," said Harrison as he told reporters Wednesday that the NOPD would have a "zero tolerance" policy.
The Superintendent says plain-clothes officers will be deployed to keep an eye out for weapons.
The New Orleans Police Department will have officers staffed at 100% capacity throughout the city during the 2017 Mardi Gras season. They will be complemented by officers from the Louisiana State Police and FBI as well as officers from other public safety agencies.
The New Orleans Fire Department and New Orleans Emergency Medical Services will also be fully staffed and prepared to respond in the event of an emergency.
Harrison says Bourbon Street will be closed to traffic from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. this Friday through Monday and again from Feb. 22 through Mardi Gras day.