As the Red Sox battle for a spot in the World Series, Boston Mayor Thomas Menino and the Boston Police Department are wisely and reasonably reminding bars and restaurants near Fenway Park to enforce already standing rules to make sure victory celebrations — or angry lash outs – remain safe and incidents of the past do not repeat themselves.

While the fans’ reaction to the outcome of the current Sox-Cleveland Indians match up is less likely to be as violent as the 2004 Sox comeback victory over the New York Yankees that resulted in vandalism and general mayhem, the BPD and Menino appear to be sending a gentle reminder to businesses that celebrations in the recent past have spiraled out of control.

Three years removed from a serious chance to move deep into the playoffs, the Sox have the ability to infuse fans and the Fenway neighborhood with a sense of excitement and competition. However, fans and the city should remember only three years ago an Emerson College junior died following the use of police force to control crowds celebrating a World Series victory.

While some requests the mayor has made, like covering sports bar windows with paper during games, seem unusual, they do not appear to interfere with the ability of Boston residents to have a good time and remain safe in the coming days.

Seeing a possible problem and reminding restaurateurs of existing common-sense practices meant to keep patrons safe – serving only of age and not excessively intoxicated customers – is a smart way to respect fans and keep everyone in line.