Vernon's 4th Of July Fireworks Schedule 2017: Popular Venue Out As Official Viewing Area

VERNON, CT — Northeast School will not be a sanctioned venue for this year's July in the Sky fireworks celebration.

The announcement was made this week by policed and recreation officials. The event is scheduled for July 5 (with a rain date of July 6) beginning at 6 p.m. at Henry Park and Downtown Rockville.

Fireworks will go off just after dusk, officials said which generally means after 9 p.m.

Pre-fireworks activities are being planned for both Rockville and Henry Park, officials said. Signs will be posted at Northeast School stating that is is not a sanctioned viewing area and part of the school property will be fenced off, Parks and Recreation Director Marty Sitler said.

"It's public property and, just like if you want to walk the dog, people can be on the property, just at their own risk, Sittler said.

The Lafayette area of Route 30 is already tricky to maneuver and it became a even greater safety issue with hundreds of fireworks spectators, recreation and police officials said. For example, attendees were parking across the street in spaces at businesses and jaywalking across Route 30.

"We can't have people darting across a state highway," Sitler said.

There was a bad accident in the area on fireworks night last year, police said.

Viewers last year were also crowding outside a fenced-in area to avoid paying the $1 admission fee, officials said. As the evening wore on they would be dangerously close to the road, Sitler said.

"Safety is the most important thing," he said.

Police said extra patrols will be stationed near Northeast school. Those on the grass will not likely be issued a trespassing ticket, but those engaging in rowdy and illegal behavior cold be subject to police intervention, officials said.

Patch File Photo