Security increased at NRG Stadium, Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion after Manchester attack

HOUSTON – Security is being increased at several large Houston-area concert venues in the wake of Monday's attack in Manchester, England.

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands released a statement Tuesday saying the venue will have heightened security at Tuesday night's John Legend concert, including bag size restrictions.

"Bags, purses and backpacks larger than 8.5” x 11” will not be allowed into the venue. All bags are subject to a search," Jerry MacDonald, CEO and president, said in a statement.

MacDonald also said their hearts and thoughts are with the Manchester victims.

Emergency plan in wake of terror attack

The Houston Red Cross recommends these simple steps:

  • Have contact information for everyone in your group: “If you're dropping off children make sure you have numbers for everyone there including their parent’s as well so you can all get in contact,” Eklan, Red Cross official, said.
  • Decide on a meet up location away from the venue in case there's an emergency and you get separated: “That way that's the first place you can check to make sure your loved one is there.”
  • Take pictures of each other before you head out
  • “So you know what they're wearing this way it makes it easier for police, if they're in a crowd and they're disoriented for them to easily identify them.”

    “This tells me that my daughter's at school, other daughter at school, husband is at work so everybody is where they're supposed to be at this point in time,” Jolee Pedigo said.

    Cellphone apps like Life 360 and the Red Cross Emergency app can also help you stay connected.

     “There's a button on it says 'I’m safe' you press it and it pushes notifications to your social media pages,” Pedigo said. “It's a really quick and easy way to let people know you're OK.”

    For a list of permitted items, please visit www.woodlandscenter.org.

    NRG Stadium is hosting U2 in concert Wednesday night and Joe Stinebaker with the office of Harris County Judge Ed Emmett said there will be extra security in place. The McNee Street entrance to the stadium will be closed, he said.

    Ticketholders should plan to arrive early.

    Click here for more information about NRG Park's bag policy.
     

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