The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to remain alert to changes to their normal route over the Thanksgiving holiday, due to an increase in traffic. Regardless of traffic patterns, safety should always be a priority.

The counting period for the 2022 Thanksgiving holiday is from 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 22 through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 27. Missouri State Troopers will be participating in operation C.A.R.E, enforcing all traffic laws and will be available to assist the public. Over the 2021 Thanksgiving holiday counting period 12 people were killed and 540 injured in 1,365 traffic crashes in Missouri.

Before making a trip this holiday season, make sure your vehicles are in good condition and that you are well rested before driving.

If temperatures are accommodating, boating or fishing might become part of Thanksgiving weekend plans. Individuals are advised to make sure navigation lights are operational. Make sure extra bulbs are on board before heading out. With the cold weather, hypothermia is also a concern if an unexpected plunge takes place while boating. It is important to get out of the water and into dry clothes as soon as possible. Always wear a life jacket and use caution to avoid falling overboard.