Lucky enough to score tickets to the Steelers game? Here’s what you need to know

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are prepared to welcome 5,500 fans into Heinz Field on Sunday — the first time that fans will be able to attend an NFL game in the 2020 season.

The Steelers have been in contact with season ticket holders, blocking out pods where fans can be safely, socially distanced while enjoying the game.

All of the tickets will be on mobile devices and will include suggestions on which gate to enter to help fans get in the stadium quickly and safely.  But Steelers' director of communications, Burt Lauten, told Channel 11 that the safety precautions start at home.

>>>RELATED: Pittsburgh Steelers allowing around 5,500 fans into stands at Heinz Field

“Basically, what we’re trying to do is similar to what everyone does going into their work or anywhere else,” said Lauten.  “We want to make sure the upfront part of it is to take your temperature at home, make sure you’re feeling OK before you come down there.”

Once in the stadium, everyone will have to wear a mask.

Lauten said, “Yeah, and that’s the mask is a NFL policy, not just a Heinz Field policy. So we are enforcing masks — as you’re in the stadium, coming into the stadium, once you’re in the stadium. And again, that’s just to protect the other fans in the stadium.”

The Steelers have been in communication with other teams in the league that allow fans in their stadiums.  Lauten told Channel 11 about the most important things they learned from other franchises.

“The biggest thing is, is the touchless points throughout the stadium — whether it’s the restrooms, whether it’s the food concessions, whatever it may be. That’s the big thing we’ve learned across the league is that how people are doing those touchless points of content,” said Lauten.

The Steelers will host 5,500 fans for the Eagles game this Sunday and the Browns game the following Sunday.  They hope it’s only the beginning.

Lauten said, “We’re just excited that this is the first step, but we are obviously wanting more fans down the road. But hopefully, the next two weeks, this weekend and next Sunday will show that our plan that we came up with is safe and healthy and will be an exciting experience as well.”

Steelers Sunday: What fans need to know

The Steelers are encouraging those fans in attendance to pay close attention to the protocols and procedures for entering Heinz Field. The following are some of the main highlights for fans with tickets:

Prior to arrival at Heinz Field:

• Fans should self-evaluate before leaving home (take temperature).
• Ensure tickets are loaded on phone or Steelers mobile app.

Parking information:

• Lots will open at 11 a.m.
• No tailgating will be permitted.

Heinz Field entrance:

• Gates open at 11:30 a.m.
• “Clear bag” policy in effect.
• Social distancing upon entering will be clearly marked and enforced.
• Mobile ticketing (all tickets) — preferably through the Steelers mobile app.
• All ticket holders within a group must sit together.
• Fans should pay close attention to their tickets and use the entrance closest to their seating section to alleviate interaction of zones (suggested gate entrance on tickets).
• New Pro Shop Open on game day (limited capacity).

Inside the stadium:

• Alcohol sales will shut down at the beginning of the third quarter.
• Food will be required with any alcohol purchase.
• Masks required at all times.
• Physical distancing (min. 6 feet) will be required at all times.
• Touchless points of contact throughout stadium.
• Sinks, toilets, soap dispensers.
• Hand sanitizer stations throughout stadium.
• Touchless food ordering.
• Fans are encouraged to stay in their zones/pods.

When fans go to their seats, they need to look for the seats with the red tags/check on them.

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