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The Wakefield Independence Day Committee (WIDC), which organizes the Fourth of July Parade, met in March with representatives of the town to critique last year’s parade and talk about the planning process for the 2012 event. One of the many items on the agenda was the safety of the parade’s participants and its viewers. As a result of that discussion, we are notifying you of key policies that we will enforce.
In order to ensure the safety of our town’s children, coaches and their team members will walk the Parade route, instead of riding in or on trucks, cars or other vehicles. Teams may carry a banner identifying themselves.
Please be aware that there is a no-throw, no-hand out policy regarding candy and other items, and that the Town of Wakefield prohibits the sale/use of silly string and throw snappers. Adherence to these policies is essential for parade participation.
“Every year I’m proud to see Wakefield’s championship teams in the Parade” stated Steve Maio, Town Administrator, at that meeting. “The athletes are obviously happy to take part, waving to their friends and families, and the spectators cheer them on. However, it has become apparent that allowing our student-athletes to ride down the Parade route in an unrestrained manner, notably in the back of pick-ups and larger trucks, has actually been putting them at risk.” Police Chief Rick Smith added that “planning has paid off over the years, and we feel fortunate that no serious accidents have occurred during the two decades that the WIDC has organized the Parade. Safety of our citizens and of the thousands of visitors who come to Wakefield is our number one priority on the 4th, and I believe that these policies help us realize our goal of many more accident-free Parades.”
Questions about these policies may be directed to Tommy Doren, Chair of the Wakefield Independence Day Committee, by calling the Committee line: 781-944-4277.
Again, we thank you for your athletes’ participation in previous parades, and we look forward to including them in the 2012 Independence Day Parade. We hope to make this year’s Parade a safe and memorable event for all participants and attendees.
