The Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging motorists and boaters to make safe choices during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, noting an increase in enforcement efforts.
The 2026 holiday counting period will run from 6 p.m. July 2 through 11:59 p.m. July 5. During this time, all available troopers will be patrolling state roads and waterways to enforce traffic and boating laws. The patrol will participate in Operation C.A.R.E. — Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort — and Operation Dry Water, which specifically targets impaired vessel operators.
Col. Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the patrol, reminded travelers to be courteous, wear seat belts in vehicles and use life jackets on, in or near the water. The patrol urges anyone whose celebration includes alcohol or other impairing substances to designate a sober operator for their vehicle or vessel.
Because of ongoing road construction statewide, the patrol encourages drivers to use the Missouri Department of Transportation Traveler Information Map to check for closures, delays, construction zones and alternate routes before traveling.
On the water, boaters should remain alert for swimmers and other vessels and watch their wakes. The patrol also reminded the public that state law prohibits discharging fireworks from a vessel. Fireworks must be left in a safe place on the shore.
During the 2025 Fourth of July counting period, 13 people were killed and 415 were injured in 993 traffic crashes across Missouri. Troopers made 118 driving while intoxicated arrests. On the water, there were 11 boating crashes with four injuries and no fatalities, as well as 13 boating while intoxicated arrests. No drownings were reported during the holiday weekend last year.
To report criminal activity or emergencies on the highway or water, the public can call the patrol's Emergency Report Line at 800-525-5555 or dial *55 on a cellphone.
