MSHP urges safety ahead of the Fourth of July holiday
MISSOURI (KQTV) -- The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding travelers and boaters to celebrate safely during the Fourth of July holiday.
MSHP is encouraging travelers to use the Missouri Department of Transportation's Traveler Information Map when planning their trips, due to ongoing road construction.
The map provides up-to-date information on road closures, delays, construction zones and alternate routes.
Additionally, MSHP reminds motorists and boaters to follow all Missouri laws, be courteous, buckle up when traveling in a vehicle and wear a life jacket when near, on or in water.
MSHP said during the 2025 Fourth of July counting period, 13 people were killed and 415 were injured in 993 traffic crashes across Missouri. Troopers also arrested 118 people for driving while intoxicated.
During the same period, there were 11 boating crashes, which included four injuries and no fatalities. Troopers also made 13 boating while intoxicated arrests. No drownings were reported during the holiday weekend.
The 2026 holiday counting period will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 2, and will continue through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 5.
MSHP said all available troopers will patrol Missouri roadways and waterways to enforce traffic and boating laws and to offer assistance as needed.
The Patrol will also participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) and Operation Dry Water, which targets impaired vessel operators.
Missouri boaters are encouraged to remain alert for other boats and swimmers and to exercise courtesy and good judgment on the water.
MSHP specifically is reminding boaters to never operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol, to watch their wake and share the waterways responsibly. Additionally, Missouri law prohibits the discharge of fireworks from a vessel.
The public is encouraged to call the Patrol's Emergency Report Line at 800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone in an emergency or if criminal activity is witnessed. The emergency numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies.
The Patrol is also telling drivers and boaters to designate a sober vehicle or vessel operator if their holiday celebration includes alcohol or other impairing substances.
