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Fans at NFL games to be subject to pat-downs entering stadiums
August 25, 2005
NEW YORK (AP) -- Fans attending NFL games this season will be subject to pat-downs as part of enhanced security implemented by commissioner Paul Tagliabue.
Tagliabue emphasized in a letter to teams that there was no specific additional threat.
But he noted that some stadiums had done hand searches of fans for several years under the increased security in place since Sept. 11, 2001. The searches also have been used during playoff games and at the Super Bowls played since the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington.
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Tagliabue said that owners decided at their meeting of Aug. 10 to extend it to all stadiums.
``This new requirement is not a result of any specific threat information,'' Tagliabue said. ``It is in recognition of the significant additional security that pat-downs offer, as well as the favorable experience that our clubs and fans have had using pat-downs as part of a comprehensive stadium security plan.''
The pat-downs will be phased in over the next few weeks, either at final exhibition games or at regular-season home openers
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Dolphins Stadium Along With The National Football League To Instate Mandatory Pat-Downs
August 25, 2005
In order to further enhance fan safety and comfort, everyone entering Dolphins Stadium during all Miami Dolphins home games will be subject to hand searches beginning Saturday, August 27, 2005.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early at the stadium gates to help facilitate this additional security measure. All fans entering Dolphins Stadium will be subject to and should expect to be patted-down by security personnel before going through stadium gates.
Pat-downs of fans entering NFL stadiums have taken place on a frequent basis in recent years. Following discussions at a recent league meeting, Commissioner Paul Tagliabue and the NFL clubs determined that these hand searches should be a required element of stadium security at all NFL games.
“This new requirement is not a result of any specific threat information,” said Commissioner Tagliabue. “It is in recognition of the significant additional security that pat-downs offer, as well as the favorable experience that our clubs and fans have had using pat-downs as part of a comprehensive stadium security plan.”
Several NFL teams successfully used pad-downs as part of stadium security procedures last season. Hand searches of all fans entering stadiums also were employed during all NFL playoff games last season. Pat-downs at stadium gates have been part of the Super Bowl security plan since 2002.
“First and foremost the safety and security of our fans remains at the forefront of every event held at Dolphins Stadium,” said Joe Bailey, Chief Executive Officer for Dolphins Enterprises. “We embrace the National Football Leagues’ pat-down mandate and encourage fans to arrive early, enjoy the many pre-game activities in SportsTown, along with the best tail-gaiting experience in the NFL.”
Stadium management encourages fans to arrive early to avoid long lines and to avoid missing the 7:30 p.m. kickoff.
Stadium gates open two hours prior to kick-off. Express lanes for guests without items to be checked will be available at gates B, D, F and H. Individuals conducting pat-downs will do so on a gender specific basis. In addition, family lanes will be in place to accommodate guests attending the game with children. Stadium management asks that all guests remain patient and cooperate with the pat-down procedures. |
