Whether you are going to be in the water or on the road, some tips from law enforcement officers will help keep you safe.

For many the Fourth of July celebration starts on the water and marine patrols are well aware.

They'll be out in full force looking to stop partyers and speeders, especially making sure there are life jackets aboard.

Marine patrols also stress the importance of having a working marine radio.

Cell phones are great on land, but as boaters head offshore the phone signal weakens as they move away from the coastline.

And on the roads, expect to see increased DUI checkpoints all hours of the day, all week long.

As for celebrating with your own fireworks, take this chief's advice.

"This holiday season we're encouraging residents to go to public fireworks displays rather than take fireworks in their residence and at parties,” said law enforcement official James C. Rovella.

If you're planning a barbecue to celebrate, don't forget food safety.

Do leave food out un-refrigerated for more than two hours and only one hour if it's out in the hot weather.