Missouri State Highway Patrol urges safety for Labor Day holiday

MISSOURI (KOAM) -- "In Missouri, 15 people died and 477 were injured in 1,058 traffic crashes over the 2023 Labor Day holiday. This means one person was killed or injured every 9.5 minutes," according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

MSHP says in 2023, there were 12 boating crashes including zero fatalities and three injuries. No one drowned over last year's Labor Day holiday. Troopers arrested 10 people for boating while intoxicated during last year's counting period.

The Labor Day holiday is right around the corner and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging people to keep safety in mind.

Safety Reminders for on the Road and the Water

• Never operate a vehicle or vessel while you are impaired .
  • Alcohol affects your judgement, reaction time, vision, coordination, and comprehension. The movement of the boat, vibration and noise from the boat's motor, sun, and wind are all boating stressors and enhance the effect of alcohol on your body. If alcohol is part of your water activities, drink responsibly, and never operate a vessel if you've consumed alcohol.
• Missouri's boaters are asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers and being courteous on the water.
  • Boaters should avoid overloading their boat with too many passengers and always pay close attention to the boats around them. Causing harm to another person or their property with an excessive boat wake may subject you to enforcement action or civil liability.
• Life jackets save lives. Wear one when you are on or around water.
• The public is encouraged to call the Patrol's Emergency Report Line (800) 525-5555 or *55 on your cellular phone if they witness criminal activity or experience an emergency.

For more safety tips ahead of the holiday weekend, click here.

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