SAINT PAUL, Minn. - The Minnesota Wild today announced new security measures effective Sept. 21, 2015 at Xcel Energy Center, in conjunction with the start of the 2015-16 National Hockey League (NHL) season. As part of an NHL-wide effort, walk-through metal detectors have been added at all entrances of Xcel Energy Center to provide fans with a smoother, faster screening environment.

"Providing a secure environment has always been our top priority and we fully support this new league-wide initiative," said Matt Majka, chief operating officer of the Minnesota Wild. "The introduction of walk-through metal detectors will allow us to provide a more efficient screening process for our fans and contribute to a more consistent entry experience."

All fans, media, vendors and staff will be required to pass through walk-through metal detectors upon entry to Wild games at Xcel Energy Center. Guests will not be asked to remove jackets, shoes, belts, keys, watches or coins, but cell phones and cameras must be set in designated bins before passing through the metal detectors.

To expedite the screening process, fans are encouraged to leave non-essential items at home or in their vehicles. Gates will open 75 minutes prior to game time to allow fans extra time to acclimate to the new screening process.

As part of these new security procedures, the Wild has also amended its smoking policy at Xcel Energy Center. Smoking will be permitted outside of Gate 3 once the game has begun. Fans will need to be re-screened to renter the arena. Smoking will be prohibited outside Gate 3 prior to game time.

More information about the new entry process can be found at wild.com/security.

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