In observance of Independence Day, all area county and city offices will be closed Monday, July 4.

Also closed on Monday are The Daily Leader offices, Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce, United States Post Office and the Mississippi Highway Patrol Driver’s License Examiner’s Office.

Waste Pro will run its normal garbage pickup routes.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol will begin the 2016 Fourth of July holiday enforcement period today at 6 p.m. and conclude Monday, July 4, at midnight.

With the anticipation of heavy traffic flow throughout the state, all available troopers will be assigned saturation patrols in an effort to maximize visibility and reduce traffic crashes, said Capt. Johnny Poulos with the Highway Patrol.

Motorists should be aware of the fine increase concerning texting while driving in Mississippi, which also goes into effect today. The fine will increase from $25 to $100 and will be strictly enforced to combat distracted driving, Poulos said.

Safety checkpoints will be established during the period to remove impaired drivers from the roadways and promote seatbelt usage.

In 2015, MHP investigated 138 crashes with two fatalities and made 125 DUI arrests on state and federal highway systems throughout the holiday period.

?We are asking motorists to join with us in making the roadways safer in Mississippi and to help allow families to have a joyous holiday weekend,? Poulos said.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation offers suggestions to enjoy a safe a responsible holiday.

?July Fourth is the time to display not only patriotism but also safety and responsibility,? said MDOT Executive Director Melinda McGrath. ?Show your love for this country by keeping it safe and never letting anyone, including yourself, drive impaired.?

? Plan ahead and designate a sober driver before drinking.

? If you are impaired, call a taxi, sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.

?ˇIf you see a drunk driver on the road, don?t hesitate to call local law enforcement.

? If you see someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to arrive home safely.