A reminder: Forget about bringing backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags and even regular-sized purses to the Metrodome tonight.
It’s Game 1 of the pre-season, with the Vikings hosting Houston at Mall of America Field.
Vikings officials are still trying to get out the word on what will and won’t be allowed through Metrodome gates when a new NFL security policy goes into effect for the 2013 season:
RT to spread the word! No Purses or Bags allowed in any NFL Stadiums. Details at http://t.co/RY3OCc6eWp pic.twitter.com/An2pNaLT8z
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) August 8, 2013
Bottom line: It puts major restrictions on bags, MPR reports. However, clutches (handheld bags) would be allowed if they’re no larger than your hand. Here’s a full rundown of what’s in and what’s out, via Vikings.com.
Vikings security head shows off size of non-transparent purses allowed into games starting this pre-season. pic.twitter.com/MLVPFBbf4h
— Tim Nelson (@timnelson_mpr) July 31, 2013
A security official demonstrated what would be acceptable by holding up a clear, vinyl square-foot bag with a Vikings logo on it.
This is an example of approved bag to take into NFL stadiums this year. Clear or small ladies clutch only pic.twitter.com/IuxtIbIwza
— Dawn Mitchell (@DawnAtFOX9) July 31, 2013
The NFL says bags must be clear, and no larger that 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. One-gallon plastic freezer bags are also safe.
Other prohibited items include: briefcases, seat cushions, laptop bags and camera bags. There will be exceptions made for medical devices and breast pumps.
The Vikings will have a free bag check outside the stadium for the first four or five games while fans get used to the new policy.
Vikings spokesperson Jeff Anderson told MPR that the Boston Marathon bombing in April was taken into consideration when the league security committee voted to beef up restrictions.
Fox 9 has some visual aids and the NFL provided a handy dandy instructional video.
