All bags to be prohibited from remaining 2009 U-M home football games

October 12, 2009
Contact:

ANN ARBOR—Security measures at Michigan Stadium for the remainder of the University of Michigan home football games will continue to be adjusted. No bags of any size will be permitted in the stadium, officials with the U-M Department of Public Safety announced today.

The bag prohibition includes, but is not limited to, purses, lunch sacks, binocular and camera cases, fanny packs and diaper bags. Exceptions for medical reasons may be granted as long as the patron has a prescription or written authorization from a medical professional. Permitted items that will not fit in the owner’s pockets, including medicine, medical equipment and diapers for small children, should be placed in a clear plastic bag that is no larger than a gallon size.

Charlie Noffsinger, DPS deputy chief and the game-day law enforcement incident commander, said continuing the adjusted security measures is the prudent thing to do. “We were very pleased by the cooperation exhibited by attendees at the Indiana game. We observed that with such a large percentage of the people cooperating with the permitted items policy, the lines to enter the stadium moved very swiftly and we did not experience any back-ups at the gates.”

Again, officials emphasized that they have not received any specific threats toward the stadium. “While we have not received information of any specific threats, we have consulted with federal officials and athletics personnel and believe it is appropriate to adjust some of our security protocols as we did in September. By prohibiting all bags into the stadium, we allow our law enforcement personnel to focus their attention on other security measures in order to ensure a safe environment for all.

“We recognize that this adjustment may be challenging for some patrons, especially those with small children,” Noffsinger said. “Unfortunately even diaper bags could be used to convey dangerous materials; we want to reduce that opportunity at Michigan Stadium.”

All fans planning to attend the game are strongly encouraged to get to their stadium seats earlier. Stadium gates will open at 10 a.m.

Patrons planning to attend the game are asked to leave everything at home and bring only their identification and seat tickets or official credentials. Binoculars and small cameras will be allowed provided they are not in a case. Non-pocket seat cushions, cell phones, and clear, sealed water bottles also will be permitted. Any permitted items brought to the stadium are subject to search.

AthleticsPublic Safety