Security preparations underway for first MU home football game

The University of Missouri Police Department met with the Highway Patrol and other emergency response agencies Wednesday morning to discuss safety measures for the upcoming football season.

Major Brian Weimer with MUPD said they’re not changing much to the usual security plans.

“We’ll still be operating a unified command as we have for the past many many years,” he said. “Perhaps the amount of people and where we put them depending on the changes that may occur, but once again we never discuss the specifics of our plan.”

Weimer said all 41 officers at the department work every home football game. They’re also assisted by 65 Highway Patrol troopers.

“We want to provide a safe atmosphere for everybody that’s involved and getting there is part of that,” said Lt. Justin McCullough with the Highway Patrol. “So obviously traffic control is a huge priority for us.”

Security preparations begin hours before each game at Faurot Field. MUPD’s K9, Brass, searches the entire stadium sniffing for explosives. The Capitol Police’s K9 also helps search the stadium.

Law enforcement officials said they mostly respond to heat-related illnesses during the home opener.

“Make sure you come hydrated and stay hydrated throughout the game,” said. McCollough. “Hydration is a huge issue that we have in the first few games when it’s very hot. “

Weimer said law enforcement will be meeting with the athletics department on a weekly basis until game day plans are finalized.

The Tigers first home game is September 10 at 6:30 p.m. against Eastern Michigan.

Click here for more game day policies at Faurot Field.