The Fourth of July is a time for fun, fireworks and injuries.  Hospital officials say the majority of fireworks-related injuries are burns to the face, hands and arms and injuries to the eyes.  Officials advise people never to shoot fireworks when children are around and to go to a professional exhibition rather than setting off their own fireworks.

The Missouri Water Patrol is warning boaters to be careful this Fourth of July weekend.  Water Patrol officials say the Mississippi River will be very treacherous and are encouraging boaters to stay off the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.  This is because of the high water levels and the amount of debris floating in those areas.  Most of the other waterways are higher than normal but are safe to use.

The Missouri Highway Patrol will step up its patrols over the Fourth of July weekend.  Troopers will be on the lookout for aggressive drivers, speeders, seat belt violators and especially intoxicated drivers.  Two people were killed and 230 people were injured in traffic crashes in Missouri over the Fourth of July holiday last year.