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Football game day safety and sportsmanship reminders

Football Fans

The WVU Police Department looks forward to cheering on the Mountaineers with you this football season, and as we get ready to take on Penn State this weekend, fans are encouraged to cheer and celebrate responsibly by following these safety tips.

  • Under the West Virginia Campus Self-Defense Act, passed by the West Virginia Legislature in 2023 and commonly referred to as “Campus Carry,” fans cannot legally bring a pistol or revolver to a WVU Athletics event at Milan Puskar Stadium. Weapons detection devices will be utilized at the gates for all fans.

  • The WVU clear bag policy remains in effect at all Athletics ticketed events. Fans are limited to one bag per person. Find more information on the clear bag policy.

  • If you are drinking alcohol, stick with one type of alcohol, pace drinks to one or fewer per hour and alternate alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages. Never let your drink out of your sight or set it down. And don’t leave a friend behind — utilize the buddy system or stick with a group.

  • If you see something suspicious, say something. Download the LiveSafe app and turn on push notifications for direct and discreet two-way communication with University Police.

  • If you see someone who may be in danger of a drug or alcohol overdose, dial 911 to call for help. Under the University’s medical amnesty policy through the Campus Student Code and the laws of West Virginia, bystanders and those affected by drug or alcohol overdose may be safe from prosecution and may not face charges under the Campus Student Code if they seek medical assistance in an emergency. Always seek help when someone’s life may be at risk.

  • Finally, let’s be respectful towards fellow fans — home and away fans alike — as well as campus property. Throwing objects will not be tolerated, and with a new state-of-the-art camera system, police officers can review footage in detail to identify where unwanted behaviors are originating.

If you need help at any time, dial 911, contact UPD at 304-293-3136 or talk to an officer working the event. We are here for you and appreciate your cooperation while we work together to maintain a game day experience that is fun and safe as we cheer on our Mountaineers.

To receive alerts about emergencies and incidents on or near campus, register for the WVU Alert system.