As the world’s largest music festival is about to begin Wednesday on Milwaukee’s lakefront, organizers want the public to be prepared for an enhanced security measure that will require additional time.
For the first time in Summerfest’s history, full metal detectors will have been installed and will be utilized for every visitor that enters the festival grounds.
Summerfest officials say the additional security step is slated to promote “safe family fun” so that everyone can have a good time, and be safe.
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"We put safety before music or anything else and it's just another layer of security," says Don Smiley, Summerfest CEO.
During an interview with TODAY’S TMJ4, Smiley said the decision came to step up security well before the nightclub shooting in Orlando, June 12.
And although Summerfest officials decided back in the fall of 2015 to upgrade security, they said the enhanced security should already be what people expect at other venues.
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"Just like you would find at any Major League Baseball park or NBA arena or any major concert venue," Smiley added.
Summerfest is working closely with the FBI, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Milwaukee Police, before and during the nearly two week event.
Officials also have some advice for festival goers.
- Backpacks aren’t allowed. Neither are selfie sticks, picnic baskets, firearms, and knifes.
- Leave bags at home or in your trunk. If you must bring one, there will be a separate security line, that’s likely longer. And keep in mind, the bag can’t be larger than 9X10X12. Security will be looking through it.
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