The Washington Nationals will ban backpacks at Nationals Park beginning with the 2019 season, as the team announces new security policies for the coming year.
The new policy sounds more severe than it really is, and there will be plenty of exceptions. For instance, backpack diaper bags or backpacks used for ADA/medical reasons will be allowed. All purses, briefcases, drawstring bags, diaper bags and soft-sided coolers that do not exceed 16″x16″x8″ will still be permitted. On the day of purchase, backpacks bought during games or events at Nationals Park will be tagged and permitted for that day only.
“The safety of our fans, staff and players at Nationals Park is always a top priority. We are constantly assessing our procedures in an effort to make our ballpark safer,” said Scott Fear, Washington Nationals Vice President of Public Safety and Security. “We understand the implementation of these procedures will take some time for our fans to get used to, but our organization is dedicated to making Nationals Park the safest environment possible for everyone in attendance.”