SaskTel Centre on alert after Manchester bombing

In the wake of the deadly suicide bombing at the Manchester Arena in the UK, SaskTel Centre is outlining their security policies to reassure customers.

Executive Director Scott Ford told 650 CKOM Tuesday morning the arena hasn’t received any threats, but noted staff and performers are more wary after the attack in Britain.

“It certainly heightens everything,” he said. “All the artists will be on alert and nobody wants this type of situation to happen.”

Ford said the arena has a number of security policies to prevent violent attacks at the venue.

Typically around 40 security staff are working at sold-out events like Rush games, covering every entrance to the facility.

They inspect bags, don’t allow large packages inside and “use their expertise” to select customers for pat downs.

Ford said they also redeploy their security team to monitor people as they’re leaving the building after an event has finished.

He noted, however, it could be difficult to prevent an attack outside the arena similar to the Manchester bombing.

“Those are difficult things to monitor and control for any arena in North America, and certainly the world,” he said. “But I think now people will be looking at those types of situations.”

SaskTel Centre does maintain a “red zone” near the front steps of the arena to prevent possible car attacks, he noted.

While there are concerns, Ford said his staff is well-prepared for emergency situations through regular drills.

“It includes fire, ammonia leaks, bomb threats and even active shooters,” he said. “We discuss and go through those types of scenarios, and a plan of action on how to manage the customers and evacuate the building if necessary.”