Metal detectors to be utilized at all Kohl Center events beginning with Bucks game October 8th

MADISON -- Metal detectors will be utilized at all Kohl Center events this season, beginning with the Saturday, October 8th Milwaukee Bucks/Dallas Mavericks exhibition game. This, according to a statement issued to fans by Wisconsin Athletics officials.

"Metal detection is common practice throughout most professional sports venues and now colleges and universities are following suit," UW Director of Athletics Barry Alvarez said in the statement. "The No. 1 objective at our home events is the safety and security of the thousands of people who enter our facilities."

The first Wisconsin Badgers athletics event at which metal detection will be used will be the men's hockey game against Boston College on Friday, October 14th.

Wisconsin Athletics officials say Gates A, B and C will have 23 total metal detectors, while the student entrance will have two.

There will also be one each at the player pass gate and the suite gate.

Everyone wishing to enter the facility will be required to pass through the metal detectors in an effort to improve security at Badger sporting events.

Signage outside the Kohl Center will instruct fans as to which items can or cannot pass through the metal detectors.

No changes have been made to the current carry-in policy, but in order to expedite entry into the Kohl Center, fans are encouraged to limit the number of items they bring to a game. As they approach the metal detectors outside the building, fans will need to remove cell phones, cameras, and keys from their pockets before going through the metal detectors. They will not need to remove items such as hats, jewelry, belts, shoes, wallets or coins.

In conjunction with the implementation of metal detectors, Kohl Center gates will now be open 90 minutes prior to the start of events.