CINCINNATI – The Bengals are expecting good weather and a large crowd for their primetime game against Houston Monday, and the team recommended fans arrive early to ensure they don’t want to miss anything due to extra security.
NFL officials announced they were increasing stadium security through "visible and non-visible measures" following the terrorist attacks in Paris Friday. However, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security have said there are no known threats against NFL stadiums.
A city press release distributed Monday reiterated that, despite extra security, "there are no known specific threats in the US or specifically related to tonight’s game."
Bengals management recommended that fans don’t bring any bags or purses at all, though small clear bags are allowed. Bringing nothing will speed the length of passing through security checkpoints.
According to a city press release, additional uniformed law enforcement officers will be in and around Paul Brown Stadium and The Banks before, during and after tonight's game. Additional surveillance will also be conducted Monday afternoon and evening.
“Multiple agencies are coordinating efforts to tighten security for tonight’s Bengals game,” said Mayor John Cranley in the press release. “We must not let terrorists or the fear of terrorism ruin our ability to come together for public events.”
City officials ask the public to watch for suspicious activity and to report anything of concern to the Fusion Center at 513-263-8000.
Also, because it’s Monday Night Football, there will be extra activities before kickoff, Cincinnati’s Walk The Moon will sing the national anthem and there will be enhanced fireworks for player introductions.
The team also released the following statement on security:
“Since 9/11, the NFL and the Bengals have taken an comprehensive approach to fan safety at all of our games. Security at NFL games has evolved over the years and will be in full force for the game Monday evening. While we do not go into the details of all the security measures in place at our games, many aspects of our security plans are obvious to fans. Examples include the Clear Bag Policy, use of magnetometers as fans approach the stadium, and K-9 searches. Other aspects of security may be less obvious.
“Collectively our response represents the Best Practices that have been adopted by the NFL and other member Clubs.”
