To provide a safer environment for the public and significantly expedite fan entry into Candlestick Park, the San Francisco 49ers announced an NFL policy that limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into the stadium.
In the coming weeks, the 49ers plan to provide season ticket holders with additional details on the new bag policy, as well as a special offer bag for the 2013 season.
"The 49ers place the highest priority on the safety and well being of each and every fan in attendance at our games," said 49ers vice president of stadium operations and security Jim Mercurio. "While striving to make the overall experience at Candlestick Park as enjoyable as possible, it is necessary to constantly evaluate our security protocol and implement new policies where we see fit. The NFL has great expertise in the area of venue security, and we will continue to work closely with them to assure our fans the safest environment to support their team."
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 49ers strongly encourage fans to not bring any type of bags, but outlined today 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." (Official NFL team logo clear plastic tote bags are available through club merchandise outlets or at nflshop.com), 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 designated for this purpose.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, seat cushions, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.
For additional information, go to NFL.com/allclear.
Fans will continue to be able to enjoy their tailgate activities in the parking lots and to do so with greater safety and the knowledge that their entry into the stadium will be smoother and faster.
In recent years the 49ers have enhanced their already comprehensive safety plans with additional measures such as pat downs, bag checks and metal detectors.
"Our fans deserve to be in a safe and secure environment," said Jeffrey Miller, NFL vice president and chief security officer. "Public safety is our top priority. This will make the job of checking items much more efficient and effective. We will be able to deliver a better and quicker experience at the gates and also provide a safer environment. We appreciate our fans' cooperation."
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.
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.
