For the first time since 1985, San Francisco hosts the Super Bowl, and for the 50th Anniversary no less! This Sunday, the Denver Broncos and the Carolina Panthers will go head-to-head at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara for the NFL grand finale. Meanwhile, San Francisco will host the ultimate Super Bowl party, more than a week of nightly concerts and other events at Super Bowl City.
One million people are expected to celebrate the Super Bowl in San Francisco. The magnitude of the event, combined with the density of the Bay Area, means security will be in full force. The FBI reports that more than 60 federal, state, and local agencies are combining forces during what they consider the biggest national security event of the year.
With the heightened level of security, expect these agencies to monitor your license plate, your cell phone, and your image. So if you decide to visit San Francisco during Super Bowl festivities, or Santa Clara for the big game, drive very safe and smile for security cameras.
Here are some other Super Bowl safety tips to keep in mind:
- Take BART or MUNI to Super Bowl City. Buy transit tickets from official kiosks or download the MuniMobile Android/iPhone app to get tickets ahead of time.
- If you park a car, pay attention to time limit signs to avoid getting towed. Also, don’t leave anything in your car. Not even a paper clip. Take belongings with you and store everything else in the trunk.
- Register for emergency text alerts by texting “AlertSF’ to 888-777.
- Be aware of your surroundings when walking in large crowds. In other words, don’t swing your purse around for anyone to grab!
- When watching the game, limit alcohol intake and stop drinking at the end of the third quarter.
- It’s all hands on deck for local police departments. This means absolutely do not drink and drive. Assign a designated driver if you’re out on the roads.
- Wear your seat belt.
- As excited (or depressed) as you are about the outcome, don’t text about it while driving.
Most importantly, whether you go out to watch the game or host a Super Bowl party of your own, have fun!