Madison Fire Marshall with Spectrum Fireworks plannersMonths’ worth of collaborating, planning, programming, constructing, inspecting, and cross-checking all culminate tomorrow night at Shake the Lake, Madison’s premier celebration prior to Independence Day.
 
Madison Fire Marshal Ed Ruckriegel met with event organizers and representatives from Spectrum Pyrotechnics on Friday to confirm that everything is up to code and ready to go.
 
Saturday’s show will originate from six barges anchored in Lake Monona after operators launch the spectacular display remotely from a firing zone. Hundreds of fireworks are programmed to synchronize with Star Wars-themed music broadcast on a variety of local radio stations and web streams. They’re slated to begin at 10:00 p.m.
 
In addition to preparing for the fireworks, the Madison Fire Department was also called upon to help with a human cannonball launch scheduled for approximately 8:45 p.m. WKOW TV in Madison reports on how the launch will happen and what’s being done to facilitate a safe landing on the lake.
 
Along with the Lake Rescue Team, MFD will provide two paramedics, four firefighter/EMTs, and a Division Chief to respond to calls on site. A UW-Madison medical student participating in emergency medicine field training will also assist our paramedics (learn more about our partnership with UW Emergency Medicine residents here). Some responders will be on bicycles while others will be utilizing our mini-ambulance and mini-fire ATVs.
 
We anticipate that through months of careful planning, in concert with responsible participation by all in attendance, Shake the Lake will be a safe and enjoyable event for all.

Spectrum workers with bargesBarges loaded with fireworks
 

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Category: Your Safety