High School Football Game Security

• By Patrick V. Fiel Sr.
• August 06, 2025

The high school football season is scheduled to commence across the country in the coming weeks. The players and coaches have worked extremely hard preparing for a successful season. Students, parents, and the community are ready to support their teams.

However, the presence of a large number of enthusiastic fans alone can create a variety of security challenges, but factor in alcohol, drugs, and weapons, you could be looking at a recipe for disaster.

Ensuring a safe environment is essential—not only to protect the well-being of everyone present but also to uphold the integrity and enjoyment of the games.

Proactive planning is crucial to prevent any and all types of incidences and hazards. It outlines procedures for responding to various emergencies, including injuries, medical emergencies, weather incidents, and security threats. Coordination with Local Authorities: Involve police, fire, and medical personnel in the planning and execution of events.

Incidents Involving Firearms During the 2024 Football Season

These shooting incidents have prompted increased attention from parents, educators, and community leaders regarding student safety during after-school events. Numerous calls have been made for the implementation of improved security measures.

On August 19, 2024, a man was shot and injured in the football stadium parking lot during school spirit night at Bossier High School Bossier City, La.

On August 30, 2024, two students were shot and injured after a high school football game at Passaic County Technical Institute Wayne, N.J.

On August 30, 2024, a teenager was killed and four other teenagers were injured in a shooting near the campus of Euclid High School, Ohio following a high school football game.

On September 29, 2024, two juveniles were shot in the school parking lot during a high school football game in Pleasure Ridge Park High School Louisville, Ky. One juvenile later died from his injuries.

In recent years, due to incidents involving shootings at sports events, school administrators have addressed the situation by rescheduling games to daytime hours, moving them to neutral locations, holding events without spectators, or canceling them.

Administrators may employ security plans and technology as measures to prevent disruptions and safeguard users. This can be achieved by implementing technology, policies, procedures, personnel, and training.

Security personnel should regularly patrol the entire stadium area before, during, and immediately after the game.

Be sure to work closely with local law enforcement and request that extra officers be available at the event and for patrolling the parking lots and immediate areas surrounding the stadium.

Most serious incidents take place while spectators are leaving and heading toward the parking lots.

Also, watch for loitering individuals and suspicious vehicles. Additionally, gathering and socializing in the parking lot or sitting in cars before, during or after the game should be prohibited.

Train staff to recognize the signs of spectators under the influence of drugs or alcohol and have those spectators removed. Have a policy that requires attendees to remain in the stands unless they are entering or exiting the stadium or in line for concessions or using the restroom. Also enforce a no re-entry policy.

Modern technology helps prevent and reduce security incidents.

Multiple options exist to address or mitigate potential threats.

Effective football game safety relies on thorough preparation and having a comprehensive plan to address various incidents and hazards. While planning cannot eliminate all emergencies, readiness to respond promptly and efficiently is essential.

Video Surveillance: Cameras are used today to monitor activities and can supply evidence if incidents take place.

Metal Detectors and Wand Scans: These tools help prevent weapons from entering the premises. Have a list of items prohibited in the stadium. i.e., all weapons, drugs, alcohol, backpacks or large bags and any other objects that may compromise public safety.

Mobile Apps: schools use apps to provide emergency alerts, event schedules, and reporting tools for suspicious behavior.

Clear Communication Channels: Establish radio or phone communication among staff, security personnel, and first responders.

The PA System is effective for sending out clear and concise messages during emergencies. It helps to avoid panic and provides directions for safety.

Let us all work together to have a successful safe football season. “Remember it take a village.”