The mandatory introduction of the walk-through metal detectors complies with a policy across all NHL arenas. The addition of this protocol is in line with what is becoming industry standard across MLB, NFL and NBA venues and the Blue Jackets/Nationwide Arena are happy to comply with any enhancement that improves customer convenience and safety. The use of the machines will replace the wand screening process that Blue Jackets fans have noticed during the last two seasons.

Guests will be asked to remove keys, phones, mobile devices, wallets/money clips, and any other large metal items.

Unlike at an airport, guests will NOT be asked to remove shoes, belts, small jewelry, hair clips or small amounts of loose change during the initial screening.

In the event that an alarm is triggered, a secondary search will be conducted by a certified security staff member.

As long as the chair, scooter or walker fits through the machines, guests may use them. If the mobility device does not fit or guests in these circumstances prefer a wand screening, they are asked to use the entrance designated for such accommodations.

It is safe to proceed through the machines, however, guests with medical circumstances who prefer a wand screening may request such accommodation.

It is safe for expectant mothers to pass through the machines, however, women who prefer a wand screening may request such accommodation.

Children are subject to screening, however, parents with an infant may carry the baby. Parents who are attending with small children who are able to walk on their own are invited to proceed through the machines alongside their children.

For preseason and most regular season games, Nationwide Arena will maintain the usual policy of opening doors one hour before game time. In special instances, doors will open an extra half hour early so fans may plan to enter early on that night in advance of puck drop.

Guest may not bring the following items into Nationwide Arena:

• Any food or beverage
• Alcohol of any type
• Should you need to bring food into an event for medical reasons, please call 614-246-3872 or email eventservices@bluejackets.com to request a food permission slip ahead of time
• Video cameras, professional cameras, detachable lenses or audio recording devices
• Cans, bottles, coolers or any similar containers
• Laser pens or laser products of any type
• Balloons
• Fireworks
• Strollers
• No backpacks, oversized bags, duffel bags, luggage, coolers, computers or camera bags allowed with exceptions made for guests that require a larger bag for medical or childcare needs. All bags will be subject to inspection.
• Air horns or noise makers of any type
• Any sealed, wrapped packages (including gifts for employees, athletes or performers)
• Selfie sticks or telescopic devices
• Sticks that are longer than 2.5" long and more than 0.5" wide are not permitted at Blue Jackets games; no sticks of any kind are permitted at all other arena events
• Any poster/sign larger than 22" x 28"
• No signs, posters, or messages on any garment with explicit language, profanity or derogatory characterization directed toward any person
• Golf-style umbrellas and/or umbrellas with a pointed tip are not permitted. Small, collapsible umbrellas that can fit into a purse or hand bag are permitted
• Smoking of any kind in non-designated areas is prohibited, including e-cigarettes
• Weapons of any type including licensed concealed carry weapons, knives, mace, pepper spray, blades, tools, etc.
• Drones or other model aircraft
• Hazardous items (chemicals, paints, fuels, etc.)
• Any other item deemed unacceptable by Nationwide Arena management