"You can never be complacent:" Increased security at Lambeau Field after terror attacks in Paris
GREEN BAY -- There was increased security at Lambeau Field on Sunday, November 15th as the Packers returned home to face the Detroit Lions. This, after at least 129 people lost their lives in terror attacks in Paris on Friday, November 13th. One of the planned attacks occurred at a stadium just north of Paris -- during a France vs. Germany soccer game.
The Packers reached out to the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security following the Paris attacks.
A spokesperson said teams are being told there is no known threat to NFL stadiums -- but still, fans noticed an increase in security on game day Sunday.
Increased security at Lambeau Field
"You can never be complacent," Steve Ohde from Chetek said.
"Security is much higher this game than it's been at other games we've come to this year," Ohde said.
Ohde let his teenage sons go into the stadium Sunday ahead of him -- comforted by the extra police presence, yet confident fans have always been safe at Lambeau Field.
"I really do. I know all these people around me and behind me will keep my children safe," Ohde said.
Increased security at Lambeau Field
The Green Bay Packers and the NFL issued the following statement:
“The safety of our fans, stadium personnel, and teams at all NFL games is our priority, and security at our games is robust. Our procedures have been certified and designated by the Department of Homeland Security since 2008 as effective anti-terrorism technology. All NFL clubs use mandatory metal detector screening and multiple layers of perimeter security external to the stadium to safeguard fans and the stadium from explosive threats.
Following the events in Paris on Friday, we are closely monitoring events and have been in communication with the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, which have informed us that there are no known threats against NFL stadiums.
In addition to our standard procedures described above, there will be an increased security and law enforcement presence both inside and outside stadiums in the parking lots of our stadiums this weekend. We have been in contact with clubs hosting games to reinforce our standard procedures and the league’s best practices.
We strongly recommend that fans do not bring bags with them to the stadium. If it is essential to bring a bag, it must be in compliance with the clear bag policy which requires that it be made of clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and not exceed 12" x 6" x 12." It is important that all fans comply with these requirements, and we appreciate their efforts to cooperate with these security measures.
The NFL and team security departments work closely with stadium operation personnel and federal, state, and local law enforcement to provide a safe experience for the more than 17 million fans who annually attend NFL games. The NFL and its teams continually evaluate and improve our comprehensive security plan.
Fans are asked to allow for additional time to enter the stadium and to enter at the gates printed on their tickets."
"We were at the busiest gate, the Oneida Gate. They were 'wand-ing' everybody at the bottom of the stairs before they came in. It was good to see. You felt comfortable," Jennifer Nelson from Green Bay said.
"The measures we took were to increase the safety and increase the security -- but not necessarily coming and goings from the game," Aaron Popkey, director of public affairs for the Green Bay Packers said.
In fact, Popkey said the biggest impact to fans would be merely getting inside, which took a few extra minutes for most on Sunday.
"NFL venues, including Lambeau Field have been stepping up their safety enhancements going back several years," Popkey said.
"I wouldn't send my children in if I didn't think they were safe," Ohde said.
Lambeau Field
CLICK HERE for the NFL Stadium Safety Policy.
CLICK HERE for complete coverage of the Paris terror attacks via FOX6Now.com.