Vienna Releases Series of Safety Measures in Advance of Friday's Fireworks

It has been eight years since the town of Vienna’s fireworks display was accidentally fired into a crowd of spectators.

Ever since, the town has remained committed to fireworks safety, especially during its Fourth of July displays. With that in mind, the town has released a list of safety measures it continues to abide by during its annual fireworks display.

Among the safety measures listed were the following:

• A safety barrier and perimeter for on-lookers to stay behind while enjoying the display, and fencing to prevent people from trespassing into the non- safety areas. The safe distance of the crowd from the fireworks “launching point” ranges from 350- 550 feet.
• An Inspection process will take place with the Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department Office of the Fire Marshal, the town of Vienna and the fireworks contractor on Friday morning, 13 hours prior to the start of the fireworks display. This will entail a series of 5 inspections throughout the day. Upon passing inspections right before the launch the town and the contractor will receive the safety permit to clear them for detonation for the show.
• At the time of the fireworks show cars and vehicular traffic will not be permitted to move around the area.
• More than 20 town of Vienna Recreation Department staff members will be on site to provide more immediate direction or clarification for onlookers.
• Police patrol and officers will also be on site, as will the local fire department, as will an ambulance and local paramedics.
• There will be an Emergency Vehicle Zone on site to provide immediate attention to any attendees of the fireworks display who may need it.
• The fireworks staff/contractor will be on site. These people are knowledgeable in handling hazardous materials, and will remain vigilant to ensure safety within the town, according to the town’s release.
• In the event of an emergency, all town Parks & Recreation staff members have access to the Town Alert System to notify the entire community swiftly and accurately.
• Following the fireworks display, another inspection will take place, and a final inspection will take place the morning after the display.
• The Town advises residents to remain alert, know all fireworks rules, laws and regulations; read notices and warnings, and remain vigilant to ensure safety.

This year’s fireworks display will take place on Friday night, Independence Eve, at Yeonas Park and Southside Park. Concessions will be available and live music on-hand prior to the start of the fireworks show, which is slated for 9:15 p.m.

For more questions regarding fireworks safety, town residents are encouraged to contact County Fire & Rescue Department Office Of The Fire Marshal at (703) 246- 4803.