RENTON, Wash. - Seattle Sounders FC will further enhance security measures using handheld metal detectors at all home matches beginning on July 3 vs. D.C. United, the team announced today. Fans are encouraged to arrive early at stadium gates to help facilitate this additional security measure.



"Our first priority is to ensure a safe environment for Sounders FC fans at CenturyLink Field," said Sounders FC President Peter McLoughlin. "This is the same program that was implemented at Seahawks games last season. The process is smooth and moves quickly."



The team will take the following measures and continue to encourage fans to arrive early to keep lines moving quickly when entering the stadium:



- Fans will be asked to remove all metal from their pockets and hold the items in their hands as the screening is conducted. This includes coins, keys and cell phones.



- If fans have any concerns about the use of a metal detector due to medical reasons, the enhanced pat-down screening procedure can be substituted.



- Fans are encouraged to give themselves enough time to pass through security.



CenturyLink Field gates open 90 minutes before kickoff and the 30-minute period leading up to kickoff is the busiest time frame at the security screening points.