Tighter security checks at Tacoma Dome coming in February

There might be heavy metal inside the Tacoma Dome, but certain other types of metal will be barred at the door.

The Tacoma Dome announced Friday the facility will introduce “enhanced security measures for future events beginning with the AC/DC show on February 2.”

Security changes will include metal detectors at all entrances and size restrictions for bags, the city said in a release.

“It’s a sign of the times,” said Kim Bedier, Tacoma Public Assembly Facilities director, on Friday.

Along with placing metal detectors at all entrances, the facility announced that handbags larger than 13  5/8 inches by 15 ¼ inches will be banned. Backpacks remain prohibited. All bags are subject to a hand search.

The new security criteria will remain in force at all Dome events, Bedier said.

“A number of venues nationwide are going to these enhanced measures,” she said. “Safety and security is our primary focus always.”

No single incident prompted the tightening of security procedures.

“With the issues that occurred at public venues in Paris, and other recent incidents, we feel that we want to make our venue as safe as possible,” Bedier said. “We wanted to get the message out widely. There wasn’t a consistent system before. We want people to feel comfortable. We want them to know what to expect.”

Facility managers are urging guests to arrive early for events. Doors at the Dome will open 90 minutes before shows begin.

“The safety and security of our fans has always been our utmost priority,” Bedier said. “We are committed to providing the resources necessary to ensure an outstanding fan experience while implementing procedures that improve safety for our guests, performers and staff.”

Items including alcohol, cannabis, weapons, laser pointers, bottles, cans, drones, selfie sticks, outside food and balloons remain prohibited at the Dome.

This story was originally published January 22, 2016 at 6:07 PM with the headline "Tighter security checks at Tacoma Dome coming in February."