National Counter Terrorism Security Office
Two CT Awareness workshops, specially adapted to take into account the current threats to the sports stadia sector, have been held at Wembley and Old Trafford and were attended by club officials from across the country.
The two leagues have also undertaken to circulate security advice to all clubs for use on their websites and social media channels.
Superintendent Dave Roney, Deputy National Coordinator for Protect and Prepare, says:
While there is no specific intelligence of an increased threat to football grounds in the UK, we have seen that terrorists are prepared to carry out attacks on this type of target.
We have been pleased with the response from the football authorities in attending our events and making renewed efforts to do all they can to keep supporters safe.
The workshops provided clubs with the opportunity to share best practice and gave police colleagues an insight into matchday activities.
The key advice CT Policing is asking clubs to share with their supporters is:
- Arrive early, allowing more time for security checks
- Minimise what you carry, fewer bag searches will speed up entry to the ground
- Be vigilant at all times and if you see anything suspicious, tell a steward right away
- If you see anything that could pose an immediate threat to safety, call 999
- In an emergency, listen to the Public Address instructions and follow them
- If told to evacuate, do so immediately
- Do not place yourself in danger by filming events on your mobile
- Move right away from the stadium as quickly as possible for your safety and to allow clear access for any emergency vehicles
- Once you are safe, follow the local police force on Twitter for news updates on the situation
To find out more, visit gov.uk/ACT or follow @TerrorismPolice