Canucks fans face test of metal, but pat-downs unlikely at arena
VANCOUVER — Vancouver Canucks fans will have to pass through airport-style metal detectors to enter Rogers Arena this season.
The team announced Wednesday they have beefed up their game-day security measures as part of the National Hockey League’s initiative to standardize security procedures at all NHL arenas.
Fans will be asked to remove all metal objects from their pockets before passing through the metal detectors, which are simi- lar to those used at airports, only faster without the need to screen luggage.
Only in unique circumstances will a pat-down or hand-held wands be used, allowing fans to enter the arena as quickly as possible. All bags will also be subject to inspection, as per previous fan safety protocols.
Canucks fans are encouraged to arrive at the arena 15 to 20 minutes earlier than they usually would.
Metal detectors at sports venues are commonplace in the U.S. The National Football League started phasing them in back in 2011, while Major League Base- ball ordered they be installed in every park this season. The new MLB security measures resulted in long delays at the turnstiles on opening day. Some Blue Jays fans complained of waits of up to 40 minutes to get inside Toronto’s Rogers Centre.
Canucks spokesperson Alfred de Vera said the Rogers Arena metal detectors will be in place for every Canuck game, as mandated by the league, but they won’t necessarily be in place for other events at Rogers Arena, such as concerts and skating shows.
“We will do a risk assessment for each event,” de Vera said.