It’s New Year’s Eve and State Fire Marshal Butch Browning is urging people to always be cautious when playing with fireworks. Browning says an average of nine people are hurt due to fireworks every season. He reminds everyone to follow a few simple rules when lighting the devices.
Cut 3 (10) “water handy”

This weekend is going to be a wet one across Louisiana as forecasters predict up to six inches of rain to fall in South Louisiana. The National Weather service says the system will begin tonight and last into Monday with the chance of localized street flooding.

Governor John Bel Edwards has named State Rep. Jack Montoucet of Crowley as the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The governor’s office says Montoucet will take office in mid-January. Former secretary Charles Melancon stepped down after an audit showed problems with his predecessor.

At least 90 homes out of the water tested at 400 residences in the town of St. Joseph were found positive for levels of lead not safe for consumption. State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says in many cases, it was found the lead was coming from pipes inside of the home. He says they’re offering more tests to ensure there aren’t other sources of lead in the home that kids could be exposed to.
Cut 10 (09) “and soil”

Louisiana produces more waste in December than any other month so the state Department of Environmental Quality is urging the public to recycle. Jean Kelly with DEQ says rechargeable batteries that no longer hold a charge are recyclable. She says certain parishes have drop off sites for recycling, along with pick ups.
Cut 8 (09) “collecting it”