USU Athletics to conduct bag searches at sporting events
Aggie fans and visitors should expect to see bag checks at some of Utah State University’s major sporting events. In a press release on Aug. 23, USU Athletics detailed changes in security procedures to be implemented during the 2019-2020 football and men’s basketball seasons.
“The checks this year are purely for safety. We want to make sure that nobody is bringing in suspicious items that could be used for harm,” said DJ Eckman, the USU Director of Event Operation and Facilities. “This isn’t going to be like a TSA check at the airport where you empty out all your pockets, take off shoes and belts and go through a metal detector.”
The press release details a number of prohibited items, including alcohol, fireworks, coolers, weapons and others. Most items found on the prohibited list this year are the same as last year, according to Eckman. “If you don’t have a bag, you still can come right in. Those with bags will just have a staff member do a quick check before they are allowed in,” Eckman said.
The release also details the bag search policy. All bags brought to the games will be subject to search, according to the press release. However, the release states that guests with a 12-by-12-by-6 inch clear bag or a one-gallon size clear and sealable bag will be expedited through the process.
The expedition of clear bags through the line is not just a way to speed up the line. According to Eckman, USU decided to implement the security checks in a two-stage approach. During the 2020-2021 season, a clear-bag-only policy will be instituted.
“In essence, if you can see through it, there’s no need to stop and conduct a bag search. Most major sporting events around the country have now instituted a clear bag policy,” Eckman said. “This is something the Department of Homeland Security recommends, and we felt comfortable moving in this direction.”
According to Eckman, USU has been working towards getting the check installed over the past 6 months. However, security checks have been in discussion by the university for the past couple of years.
“Recent events regarding mass shootings do illustrate that these types of events can happen anywhere in a post 9/11 world,” Eckman said. “Our intent was to implement policies and procedures that provide a safer environment for Aggie fans to come and cheer on our teams.“
Aggie fans will have a chance to experience the changes firsthand at USU this Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
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