Game night safety falls short

The Appalachian feels certain security and safety issues for the Halloween night football game were not properly investigated by the Boone Police Department, Appalachian State University Police, Parking and Traffic and Appalachian Athletics.

The Mountaineers will face Wofford College’s Terriers Friday in a game that will draw large crowds.

The game will be televised on ESPN2 and both teams are in the top five of the NCAA Div. 1 FCS standings.

The Appalachian questions the determining factors in deciding to hold the game on a Friday night, and believes the university came to this decision in part due to the game’s publicity on ESPN2.

In order to accommodate tailgating, parking lots on campus will be open at 3 p.m. This means students who park in Stadium, Greenwood and Justice Parking

Lots will need to relocate to Hill Street, Horn in the West or State Farm Parking Lots by 2 p.m. As a side effect, students who potentially have classes after 3 p.m. may be forced off campus.

Parking and Traffic has also stated it is unrealistic to tow cars prior to 3 p.m. because students and faculty have class and work. If cars are still present after 3 p.m., then Yosef Club members may have a hard time finding an appropriate parking space for their designated tailgating.

The Appalachian does not believe the policy for this game was thoroughly examined for maximized effectiveness and safety.

The AppalCART will extend hours of operation until 1 a.m., but Appalachian Safe Ride will not operate Friday night, which is one of the most important nights concerning safety this year.

University Police is only receiving an additional six officers for traffic and safety patrols from the Boone Police Department and the Event Partners Inc. is only employing an additional 15 people to manage the interior of the stadium during the game.

As it stands, costumes are frowned upon by security staff, but are not prohibited. This could mean more alcohol and possibly weapons are smuggled into the stadium by use of costume.

The question of safety clearly becomes an issue not only for the student body but also for alumni, Boone community members and children.

The atheltics department is hosting the “Trunk or Treat” event from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday night where young mountaineer fans can travel throughout Stadium, Justice and Duncan Parking Lots to trick or treat.

The Appalachian sincerely hopes no parent will allow their children to trick or treat during tailgating due to the amount of alcohol consumed and party atmosphere which will be present.

Issues such as safety concerns, parking and “Trunk or Treat” were not carefully analyzed by the university to provide a safe and fun atmosphere for what can easily turn into a security disaster.

Traffic directed after the game will undoubtedly contain intoxicated drivers as well.

The Appalachian wishes for everyone to drink responsibly and avoid driving while impaired.

The Appalachian hopes everyone in attendance at tailgating and the game will maintain a safe and secure environment. 

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