SUMMARY: Severe storms on June 29 caused widespread damage in Springfield and Greene County, Missouri. Over 9,000 City Utilities customers remain without power, down from 37,000 at the storm’s peak, with full restoration expected by July 3. Residents should report damage and outages and inspect electrical weatherheads for safety. Debris removal efforts continue, including chainsaw crews and public works clearing streets and downed power lines. Several parks and trails remain closed due to damage. Outdoor warning sirens are partly offline; residents should use multiple alert methods. A media briefing is scheduled June 30 at the Public Safety Center.

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SUMMARY: Red, White & Blue in the Loo is a community event happening July 3rd and 4th at the Monroe County Fairgrounds in Waterloo to celebrate Independence Day and support local charities. Activities include live music, autocross, a mechanical bull, axe throwing, a silent disco, art and craft vendors, food stalls, and family fun like Bubble Jungle and a real-life dinosaur exhibit. Proceeds benefit the Violence Prevention Center of Southwestern Illinois and the JB Patriot Pantry food drive supporting local survivors of domestic violence and food insecurity. Tickets are $25, with discounts available online at redwhiteandblueintheloo.com. Families and kids are welcome.

For more information, visit redwhiteandblueintheloo.com

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SUMMARY: Emergency physician Dr. Joseph Finney highlights the dangers of Fourth of July activities for children, especially fireworks, which can cause serious burns and eye injuries. He warns that sparklers burn as hot as blowtorches and that larger or illegal fireworks pose greater risks. Summer also increases trauma from ATVs, motorbikes, and drowning incidents near water. Barbecue pits and propane pose additional hazards for young children. Dr. Finney advises parents to avoid letting young kids handle fireworks, to supervise older children closely, and to consider watching professional displays to ensure safety during the holiday. Alcohol can worsen risks, so caution is essential.

Fireworks can be dangerous, especially for kids. Dr. Joseph Finney with WashU Medicine stopped by Today in St. Louis+ to share tips for keeping you and your family safe this Fourth of July.

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