CHICAGO(April 29, 2016) — In conjunction with the recently announced elevated security standards across all 20 Major League Soccer venues, the Chicago Fire will introduce random security screening of fans entering Toyota Park beginning on Saturday, April 30 when the Fire host D.C. United (4 p.m. CT, CSN Chicago).
The random screenings will be conducted with hand-held metal detectors. All fans are advised to allow extra time for stadium entry in an effort to alleviate lines at stadium gates and minimize inconveniences.
“Public safety is a top priority and the enhanced security measures will ensure that fans are able to continue to enjoy MLS and SUM events in a safe environment,” said MLS president and Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott.
The aforementioned security screenings will be expanded to apply to ALL FANS entering the stadium beginning with the Chicago Fire’s home match on May 21 against the Houston Dynamo.
Stadium security personnel also will continue to enforce the league-wide Bag Policy, which has been in effect at Toyota Park since the start of the 2016 season and prohibits fans from possessing the following:
· Large purses
· Coolers
· Briefcases
· Backpacks
· Luggage of any kind
· Computer bags
· Camera bags
· Any bag larger than 14’’x14’’x6’’
In addition, all bags will be subject to search upon entry. The bag restriction will not apply to credentialed media, who will continue to enter MLS stadiums through designated entrances and adhere to all posted media bag policies and screenings.
**Special considerations will be made for guests with special medical needs and parents caring for infants.
The increased security policy was unanimously supported by the MLS Board of Governors and involved input from all 20 MLS clubs.
MORE INFORMTATION:
Tips for fans:
• Allow for additional time to get into the stadium; lines will be longer than you've experienced in the past
• Leave all prohibited items at home
• The less you bring, the more time you can save
• Have your ticket ready to be scanned
FAQs:
Q: Why are the Fire implementing the use of hand-held metal detectors at the stadium?
A: The enhanced security measures are the result of Major League Soccer’s continuing work aimed at standardizing and improving security practices across every MLS venue to ensure that all fans are safe.
Q: When are you going to start using hand-held metal detectors?
A: We will start using hand-held metal detectors on Saturday, April 30th for random screening. Beginning on Saturday, May 21st, all fans entering the stadium will be screened with a hand-held metal detector
Q: What can fans expect at the gates of Toyota Park?
A: Fans will be subjected to metal detection by hand-held wands prior to having their tickets scanned. Guests will be asked to remove all metal items from their pockets and hold them in front of their body. If the device detects the presence of metal anywhere else on the body, the guest will be asked to remove any other additional items. If, after this process is complete, the wand still detects metal, the guest will be asked to consent to a pat-down of the affected area to be granted entry to the venue.
Q: Are you changing other gate policies or your list of prohibited items for 2016 as well?
A: Bag policy. Fire season ticket holder and Fire drawstring bags are allowed
Q: Are you changing other gate policies or your list of prohibited items for 2016 as well?
A: All other standard Toyota Park gate policies and procedures remain unchanged for the 2016 season. A list of all prohibited items can be found here. There will be no storage available for prohibited items.
Q: Do I have to take off my jacket, belt or shoes?
A: No. Fans will not be required to remove belts, shoes, or jacket. Fans will be required to empty pockets, and to ensure that no prohibited items are on their person.
Q: Does this mean it's going to take a long time to get through the gates before each game?
A: As we implement this security enhancement, we are making every effort to ensure our entry process remains as efficient as possible. As with any new procedure, we anticipate an adjustment period for our staff and fans. We encourage fans to plan for additional time needed to enter the stadium. We appreciate your patience.
Q: What if I don't want to be subjected to a screening by a hand-held metal detector?
A: If a fan has a medical condition and does not want to be screened by the hand-held metal detector, they will be directed to a security officer at that gate who may provide the fan with an alternate screening. If you elect to not consent to the screen, you will be denied entry to the stadium.
Q: Do children have to be screen by the hand-held metal detectors?
A: All people who enter Toyota Park are subject to the enhanced security screening process as required by MLS.
