Carrier Dome launches walkthrough metal detectors, clear-bag policy

SYRACUSE — Fans attending football, basketball, and other games at the Carrier Dome this upcoming season will enter the venue through walkthrough metal detectors and will need to observe Syracuse University’s clear-bag policy.

The effort seeks to “provide a safer environment for the public and to expedite fan entry” into the venue, the university announced Aug. 9. 

Walkthrough metal detectors will be in place at all Carrier Dome entry gates beginning with the first 2018 Orange football home game on Sept. 8. Fans will be asked to present cell phones, cameras, and other large metal objects to the Carrier Dome event staff as they approach the front of the line. 

Fans will not need to remove keys, loose change, wallet, jackets, or belts.

“We are committed to providing a secure environment for our fans,” Syracuse University Director of Athletics John Wildhack said in a release. “The new clear-bag policy will enable us to deliver a better and quicker experience at the gates and also provide a safer environment. We appreciate our fans’ cooperation.”

Clear-bag policy

Syracuse’s clear-bag policy takes effect with the start of the upcoming football season. It limits the size and type of bags permitted inside the stadium. Clear bags are “easily searched and reduce faulty bag searches,” which makes bag checks “more efficient and effective,” the university contended.

The policy is “consistent” with all NFL stadiums and many ACC members, Syracuse said. 

Syracuse University will provide an “educational period,” running through the first three home football games, for fans to learn about and adjust to the new clear-bag policy. The policy will be in effect for all Syracuse University athletics events and specified other special events at the Carrier Dome beginning Oct. 6.

Fans will be able to carry one of the following style and size bag at Carrier Dome gates:

Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC (a strong but lightweight plastic) and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”

-- OR --

One-gallon, clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).

In addition, small clutch bags for personal items, approximately the size of a hand (4.5” x 6.5”), with or without a handle or strap; diaper bags (with child), and medically necessary items may be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options, “after proper inspection.” 

Seat cushions and seat back chairs are permitted, but Syracuse says they can’t have pockets, zippers, or be in their own carrying bag.

Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: backpacks, binocular cases, briefcases, camera cases, cinch bags, computer bags, fanny packs, printed pattern plastic bags, tinted plastic bags, oversize totes, mesh bags, large purses, or any bag larger than the permissible size. 

Prohibited items must be returned to the owner’s vehicle or discarded.

All season-ticket holders for football, men’s and women’s basketball, and men’s lacrosse will receive one approved clear plastic tote per two tickets. The season ticket holder bags are a partnership with Galaxy Communications. Approved clear tote bags will be available for purchase at all Syracuse University merchandise locations on the Shaw Quad and inside the Carrier Dome, as well as at the SU Bookstore for $3.

“We’ve done a considerable amount of research looking at collegiate, professional sports and other public event venues across the country. Clear bags and walkthrough metal detectors are common safety practices,” Pete Sala, Syracuse VP and chief facilities officer, said in the school’s news release. “We think after a relatively short period of adjustment, Dome visitors will embrace the use of the clear bags. And the metal detectors will be barely more noticeable than walking through a doorway.”

Working personnel, including media, will continue to enter the Carrier Dome through designated gates, where they will be subject to screening and bag inspections already in effect.