Department of Homeland Security Hosts Security Forum for Sports Executives

Release Date: 07/23/04 00:00:00

Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
July 23, 2004

Today, the Department of Homeland Security hosted representatives and security officials from professional and collegiate sport associations and venues during a one-day seminar to discuss homeland security issues and security planning for high-profile sporting events taking place during the next several months. In addition to learning more about the Department’s role and responsibility, sports officials at the seminar are learning about the Department’s perspective on new security techniques and tools that target large scale events.

“Today’s meeting provided sports officials and security personnel with valuable information about Department of Homeland Security capabilities and responsibilities” said Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge. “Working together with these representatives, we are sharing important information that will help sports facility owners and operators better prevent, detect and respond to terrorist threats and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.”

Earlier this year, Secretary Ridge described these next several months as a period of increased risk for terrorist attacks against the United States and convened an interagency working group to identify and prioritize specific policies and strategies to increase our vigilance, reduce our vulnerabilities, and strengthen our nation’s baseline level of preparedness. As a result of this working group, the Department of Homeland Security has prioritized numerous special events, including large sporting events, which may attract large crowds and generate significant public attention. Although these events are not designated National Special Security Events, additional security measures will be put place and special event training sessions will occur around the country. Department of Homeland Security has not received any specific credible threat reporting indicating that sporting events are being targeted by the terrorists.

Seminar participants discussed ways to assess potential vulnerabilities; strengthen security plans; share best practices; ensure recognition and reporting of suspicious activities; and other actions that may be taken to protect and respond during an emergency situation. Specific security measures implemented at past National Special Security Events that are being shared as best practices by the Department of Homeland Security include:

Conducting comprehensive security assessments of event venues;
Increasing perimeter security and safety patrols during an event;
Installing surveillance cameras and other equipment to enhance detection and monitoring capabilities;
Establishing restricted areas of access for essential personnel only; and
Reinforcing employee procedures to ensure knowledge of emergency protocols.

Sports organizations participating in the seminar include: Arena Football League, International Association of Assembly Managers, Ladies Professional Golf Association, Little League Baseball, Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer, NASCAR, National Collegiate Athletic Association, National Basketball Association, National Football League, National Hockey League, National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Professional Golf Association (PGA), Special Olympics, U.S. Olympic Committee, U.S. Soccer Foundation, U.S. Tennis Association and Women’s National Basketball Association.

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This page was last reviewed/modified on 07/23/04 00:00:00.

Press Room

Department of Homeland Security Hosts Security Forum for Sports Executives

U.S. Department of Homeland Security