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Flying Pig Marathon addresses security concerns

Tana Weingartner
/
WVXU

Flying Pig Marathon organizers say they're taking extraordinary measures to reassess and strengthen security plans.

There will be a larger police presence and extra volunteers to watch out for anything suspicious.

Executive Director Iris Simpson-Bush says everyone is encouraged to bring less.

Participants will have to put items in clear bags if they want them transported from the start line to the finish. Spectators with bags are being warned they could be subject to search.

Despite the tragedy in Boston, Simpson-Bush says registration numbers continue to increase along with people volunteering to help out. She estimates there could be 33,000 participants this year.

From the Flying Pig Marathon:

  • There will be a greater presence of uniformed personnel at the start, finish and along the courses.
  • Participants will likely see working canines.
  • The start and finish lines will be more secure. Proper credentials will be required to enter the appropriate areas. For participants and spectators, follow volunteers’ directives as to accessible areas.
  • Carry less with you. There will be no baggage check-in or storage for Friday or Saturday events. Sunday participants must put items in a clear plastic bag to check in at the baggage buses and pick up at the finish. Don’t stash items behind a bench, under a bush or under a car. They will be disposed of during security sweeps.
  • Volunteers or spectators wearing a backpack or carrying a bag may be subjected to a search of items by police at any time.
  • If you observe individuals or actions which are unusual or out of place for the surroundings (e.g. over or underdressed for the weather) report it to staff or safety officials.
  • If you see something, say something. If you see a bag or backpack that looks like it doesn’t belong, or has been sitting in one place for a long period of time, notify uniformed personnel. Don’t walk up to it yourself. Let the professionals handle it.

 

Senior Editor and reporter at WVXU with more than 20 years experience in public radio; formerly news and public affairs producer with WMUB. Would really like to meet your dog.