The Green Bay Packers today discussed the NFL's new policy regarding public safety enhancement and how it will be implemented at Lambeau Field. The policy limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into the stadium.
Doug Collins, Packers director of security/risk management, spoke of the new measures and also clarified the seat cushion aspect.
"We've seen an evolution of safety measures in the past decade and also have streamlined our carry-in policy in recent years," Collins said, "The use of the clear, vinyl bags is the next step that enhances public safety at Packers games. We feel fans will be able to make this adjustment for the upcoming season."
Seat cushions are prohibited in the NFL policy because they have pockets and zippered areas that can conceal devices, but stadium seats without arms and seat pads are in a different category due to their sealed construction and will continue to be allowed at Lambeau Field.
This year's policy enhances their already comprehensive safety plans with additional measures such as pat downs, bag checks and use of metal-detecting hand wands.
The NFL Committee on Stadium Security in May unanimously recommended the implementation of this measure that will enhance public safety and make it easier for fans to gain access in all stadiums. It was discussed with all clubs at the May league meeting and will be implemented at all NFL stadiums beginning with preseason games.
The Packers will continue to encourage fans to minimize the amount of items brought to the stadium. With respect to bags, the Packers strongly encourage fans to not bring any type of bags, but outlined what is permissible. Fans will be able to carry the following style and size bag, package or container at stadium plaza areas, stadium gates or when approaching queue lines of fans awaiting entry into the stadium:
Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12", or
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap, may be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options.
An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate near the Packers' ticket office.
This public safety measure is being successfully used at other large venues. The University of Michigan, Penn State University and Michigan State University do not permit any bags, while the TD Garden in Boston only permits clutch bags.
Working personnel, including media, will continue to enter NFL stadiums through designated gates where they will be subject to screening and bag inspections already in effect at all stadiums.
**View Packers.com's photo gallery** with more examples of what you can and can't bring into Lambeau Field.
