University Southern California Trojans
Fan Safety First
Sept. 25, 2001
LOS ANGELES-In the interest of public safety after the recent tragic events on the East Coast, and following in line with procedures at other athletic facilities throughout the nation, additional security measures will be enacted at the Los Angeles Coliseum for USC events, beginning with this Saturday's (Sept. 29) 3:30 p.m. football game against Stanford.
No large bags, backpacks, coolers or other large items will be allowed in the stadium. Smaller bags (such as purses, diaper bags and camera cases) are allowed, but will be thoroughly searched.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early and allow for additional time to enter the Coliseum. Stadium gates will open an hour-and-a-half before kickoff, with parking lots opening 5 hours before kickoff. Stadium re-entry is prohibited.
Additional police and security personnel will be on duty. Airspace above the stadium will be restricted. All vehicles entering inside the Coliseum gates will be searched.
Other security measures also will be put in place, but specifics will not be divulged in order to increase the effectiveness of these procedures. All new security policies will remain in effect until further notice.
"We are committed to ensuring public safety at our events," said USC athletic director Mike Garrett. "We have been very thorough in our review and upgrading of our security procedures. These measures are consistent with what is taking place at venues throughout the country. Fans should feel very safe and secure in the Coliseum. In return, we appreciate their cooperation and ask their understanding and patience as they enter the Coliseum."
