In the wake of last night's fatal fire at a Rhode Island nightclub and a stampede earlier this week at a Chicago venue, safety measures at clubs nationwide will likely be reevaluated. What measures should be taken in Boston to ensure the safety of its nightspots? What lessons can be learned -- by venue owners and concertgoers alike -- in terms of safety at clubs? .

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The same could happen in Boston especially next month - St Patrick's Day. In the past, every Irish bar in Boston tries to "stuff" as many people in their bars on St Paddy's Day (at $20/head the owners could care less about the hazards of overcrowding). It is doubtful the owners will change their ways this year as they don't want to miss out on the tax free money they make. Mumbles Menino and his flock of stoolies will look the other way as usual.

Tim, Boston

Well, DUH! NO PYROTECHNICS INDOORS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

David, Waltham

I was surprised that people were not HORRIFIED to see these fireworks going off on that tiny stage area...Why were they standing there like cows in a field looking impressed at this ridiculous not so special effects display. When you see fire burning up a wall and ceiling, do you think it's OK or do you think GET ME THE HELL OUT OF HERE and make way for the door????????? Smarten up!

JLM, Boston

I don't think this should be made into a "fire" issue, as the Chicago incident and countless other concerts in the US in the past have led to deaths from tramplings from events other than fires. One of the greatest concerns should be the lack of exit space within these venues, as they should be planned for a "worst case scenario" which would be people fleeing the scene quickly, running to the exits. Whether it be due to fights, fires, gunshots, etc...there needs to be more space for people to escape to safety when a dangerous situation arises... Something to the effect of redesigning the doorways with many more doors, most that stay bolted shut until an emergency, but can be quickly unbolted by one switch in the event of an emergency would seem logical. You can't account for human nature and the unpredictability of crowds or individuals at certain events, but you can reduce the risks associated with having large masses of people in one area.

Steve , Newburyport

I believe they should have an announcement prior to any venue regarding exiting procedures in case of an emergecny. In these situations people panic and all go out the same door they came in, instead of using all the exits.

Katie , Scituate

Steph, I am glad to hear that you and your sister made it out ok.

Former August Manager, Merrimac

Okay I know the band is saying that they had permission, but come on guys. One look at the low ceilings in that place and common sense should kick in. I don't care what permission you have. There's no permit I know of that allows you to put people's lives in danger.

Erin, Warwick, RI

My prayers go out to victims and their families. To The "Doctor" of metal, Doc, I hope your ok. You made in an impact on many people, even me, you helped me discover King Diamond. If your not with us anymore, I'm sure you are the greatest emcee that the big jam session in the sky has ever had.

Shell, Boston

The existing requirements for lighted emergency "EXIT" signs being visible from all locations withing large areas, as well as making sure that the battery backup systems (to light emergency exit signs) being operational should be STRICTLY enforced. Also, consideration should be given to requiring some form of flashing/strobe light being added (to the emergency lights) in the case of building power loss to help guide patrons to the nearest available exit in low light/smoke conditions.

Roy, East Bridgewater, MA

Take a minute before the show starts to tell people where the exits are. Some movie theaters show such info on the screen before a movie starts, why not at a concert?

Jason, Medford