By Alabama Public Radio
Montgomery, AL – The Alabama Marine Police say this holiday Weekend is also a good time to remind Alabamians about water safety. Officials say state waterways will be busy and crowded, especially at fireworks displays. Boating enthusiasts are reminded to have proper safety gear on board, to avoid drinking alcohol and to respect a boat's load limit.
Meanwhile...Alabama State Troopers say they'll also be closely watching driving behavior this holiday weekend. That includes monitoring speeding, seat belt use and impaired driving. The Department of Public Safety estimates that 15 people will die in roadway crashes on Alabama's highways during the 78-hour weekend. There were 10 traffic fatalities during the Independence Day period last year. The holiday weekend officially begins Friday at 6 p.m. and ends at midnight Monday.