Contrary to popular belief, law enforcement often deploys snipers at sporting events. These snipers provide proactive overwatch protection for the venue and are trained to spot potential terrorist attacks during events at these stadiums and arenas. Furthermore, special sniper teams may also be present at these large events to protect VIP attendees. With recent rise in mass shootings at public places, having snipers present at these large events becomes even more critical.
Sniper training requires intense physical conditioning and practice to develop accurate shooting from distance, tactical movement and weapon use in hostile environments – which will be critical in performing their duties quickly and efficiently in any situation. Instructors of police sniper school offer this training via crawl, walk and run courses; their teaching standards ensure students receive maximum benefit from this learning method.
Though it might seem odd, as you enjoy a hot dog and cheer on your team at an NFL game, someone is watching through a scope with a gun as part of safety protocol. Snipers are stationed throughout games as part of this safety protocol to combat any potential threats or danger that might emerge, but this is particularly prevalent during Super Bowl, due to its high profile event with numerous politicians and celebrities present.
Business Insider reports that photos showing snipers perched above Lucas Oil Stadium during Super Bowl XLVI went viral in 2012 and were ultimately removed following backlash from the public. While these images may have shocked some, snipers are an integral part of sporting events and it should come as no surprise when viewing these photographs.
NFL security measures for games include mandatory metal detector screening and multiple checks before fans enter the stadium, bomb-sniffing dogs, gun-toting officers and no-fly zones around it are in place to protect everyone in attendance, while NORAD fighter jets patrol this airspace to deter aerial attacks on its vicinity.
Sniper nests are constructed high above the field to give military professionals an aerial view of an entire stadium, giving them a fuller understanding of any threats that might emerge during an NFL game and taking swift action to neutralise any possible danger before it escalates into mass shootings or terrorist attacks. Snipers at NFL games are highly trained professionals ready to respond instantly at any potential threat to ensure fan safety; making them an essential element of every NFL matchup.