TCSS Announces New Safety Guidelines for Football Games

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa County School System this week announced new safety measures aimed at promoting a secure environment at home games during the 2024 high school football season.

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The enhancements include the OpenGate Weapons Detection system and specific event regulations, which TCSS says are designed to protect fans and students while maintaining a positive atmosphere at the games.

The OpenGate Weapons Detection system is already in place at all middle and high schools within the county school system and is similar to systems seen at college football games and concerts.

Integrity Event Security Services will oversee weapons detection at entry points, as well as handle security and crowd control throughout the events.

TCSS says the new guidelines will also include several key rules for spectators.

For example: Once attendees leave the stadium, re-entry is not permitted and a new ticket must be purchased to return. After ticket sales conclude, gates will operate as exit-only stations.

What's more, children ages 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Field access will be restricted to those with a designated field pass, while parents and families of student-athletes will be given specific instructions on where to meet their children post-game.

Several items are now prohibited at games, including firearms; coolers; outside food and drink; artificial noisemakers; alcohol; tobacco products; pets (except service animals); umbrellas; banners; flags; and any other items deemed inappropriate by school personnel.

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