Rutgers Tightens Security For Football Games
PISCATAWAY, N.J. (AP) — Rutgers is tightening security at its athletic events.
The university announced Monday it's implementing the NFL bag policy to provide a safer environment and expedite fan entry into its facilities.
The NFL policy, which was instituted this year in the wake of the Boston Marathon bombing, limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into the stadium. The policy will apply to all of Rutgers' athletic venues.
Beginning with the home opener on Sept. 7 against Norfolk State, fans will be able to carry clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags, packages or containers that do not exceed 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. They can carry them at stadium plaza areas, stadium gates, or when approaching queue lines of fans awaiting entry into the stadium.
Also allowed will be one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags and/or small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap that can be taken into the stadium with one of the clear plastic bag options.
An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose.
Prohibited bags include purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, seat cushions, luggage of any kind, computer bags and camera bags.
Prohibited items include: alcoholic beverages, balloons, balls, bottles, cans, containers, coolers, fireworks, laser pointers, noisemaking devices, pets, strollers, umbrellas, weapons and other items deemed dangerous and/or inappropriate.
Fans can continue their tailgate activities in the parking lots. They also will still be able to carry items allowed into the stadium, such as binoculars, cameras, and smartphones.
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