From now on, event entry will include a search using hand-held metal detectors

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Security measures at Friday night’s Whitecaps game had fans crying foul.

BC Place used hand-held metal detectors for the first time Friday and it made getting into the stadium a slow process. Pictures and video posted to Twitter show hundreds of people waiting in long lines that stretched around the stadium, and some people complained about not getting in until after the game had started.

.@WhitecapsFC @bcplace @marcdweber Let's hope the team on the pitch remembered that there is a match tonight. What a complete embarrassment. Didn't get in until well after kick off pic.twitter.com/CBiGrfYSbw — Bemused Gnome (@BemusedGnome) April 6, 2019

The stadium had announced the new security screenings earlier the same day, saying from now on, event entry will include a search using hand-held metal detectors. If you refuse the screening, you won’t be allowed in.

BC Place did warn fans before the game that it would be using the detectors, and urged them to arrive early.

Since last night’s game, BC Place has apologized for the delays, writing on Twitter: “We apologize for any inconvenience and are working to refine our entry processes for future events.”

We are making changes to our security procedures at venue entry points. Unfortunately fans experienced delays before the Whitecaps FC match last evening. We apologize for any inconvenience and are working to refine our entry processes for future events. https://t.co/hIL4n52VYK — BC Place (@bcplace) April 6, 2019

The Whitecaps also took to Twitter to apologize for the waits.

Our sincere apologies to the fans who were delayed entering the building. For those still waiting, there are no lineups at Gates B and C.#VWFC — Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) April 6, 2019

To make sure you get in quickly in future, you’re asked to bring in as few things with you as possible, arrive with time to spare before the event starts, and remove metal objects from your pockets.

You aren’t allowed to bring in bags larger than 14″ x 14″ x 6″, though exceptions may be made for guests with special needs or parents attending with infants.

All bags will be inspected before guests are allowed in, and if metal is detected on you, you’ll have to undergo secondary screening.