MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. -- Fans are still getting used to the clear bag policy at sporting events like football games in Manatee County.
To increase school safety and security, the district adopted a new policy similar to one the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have used since 2013.
“I think it’s a good idea cause I mean I want to be safe in here and I don’t want to have to worry about anything,” Nancy Lancaster said.
Fans attending the Manatee High School football game against Braden River came prepared.
“This is the size I made sure I measured it before I came out just make sure it’s the right size,” Kenia Hawthorne said. “Just keep the school safer, especially when it’s football season. There’s a lot of people out here trying to enjoy themselves, we don’t want any problems so they should totally do that.”
The district also made changes at public meetings. People will go through bag checks, metal detectors and there will be limited seating.
“I get it, I don’t like it but I get it,” Sue Sinquefield said. “It’s a sign of the times. It’s scary. I mean you are afraid to go to the mall afraid to go to a concert you are afraid to go to a football game or have your kids go to school.”
Backpacks, bags and large purses are also banned.
The school district says each guest will be allowed to carry only one large, clear bag into a game, as well as the option of a small clutch-type handbag.
The large bag must fit within specific size dimensions (no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches), be easily searchable and made of a transparent material, according to the district.
Clutch bags must be no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches.
“These procedures have been created to ensure the safety of our students and spectators,” the district said.
