Initiatives For UF-USF Football Game

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As we approach the weekend of 9/11, and as the activities of a small organization in Gainesville continue to draw national and international attention, here are some points that might help with some questions fans and visitors have about this weekend:

• We will continue to work with the University of Florida and UPD, who remain in constant communication with local, state and federal officials and there have been no changes to the game day security plan from earlier this week.

• There have been no specific threats against the University of Florida or the Athletic Association.

• The campus has heightened its awareness of security.

• Patrons have been asked to pay more attention to their surroundings and to report suspicious packages or activities to police.

• Fans are encouraged to arrive at the gates, early and pay particular attention to the prohibited items list, which will be strictly enforced. Gates open at 10:45 a.m. and the Gator Walk will be held at 10:20 a.m., two hours prior to kickoff.

• Updated information is available on the University hotline at 1-866-UF FACTS (1-866-833-2287).

The University of Florida announced several other points of interest on Thursday related to its football game against the USF Bulls at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Kickoff in The Swamp is set for 12:21 p.m. and the contest will be carried live on the SEC Network, which is on WOGX Fox Channel 13 and 713 (HD) in Gainesville. Fans outside of SEC territory may subscribe to the telecast via ESPN Game Plan or can view live streaming on ESPN3.com.

Initiatives To Know

Heat Plan Initiatives
Due to an expected high heat index for the early-season games, fans are encouraged to properly hydrate and to wear loose clothing and a hat to avoid heat exhaustion. Sunscreen of at least 30 SPF is recommended, repeating the application several times over the course of the afternoon. Sunscreen should be applied while the skin is dry and four ounces is needed for adequate protection.

People should get out of the sun if dizzy and should drink plenty of fluids, such as water and Gatorade. Another key is to avoid excess alcohol, since it will compound heat problems. Spectators with G-1 respiratory or cardiac disease should be especially careful, and everyone should proceed immediately to an aid station if help is needed.

• Cool Misting Tents in the concourses of the north, south and west sides of the stadium
• Additional fans on east side concourse
• Gator hand fan giveaway at gates courtesy of the Florida Lottery
• Sunscreen giveaway at Verizon Wireless Gator FanFest outside Gate 2 of the O'Connell Center
• Cooling Hand Towel giveaway at Verizon Wireless Gator FanFest outside Gate 2 of the O'Connell Center
• Plastic cups with ice for free at concessions stands
• 12-Ounce waters on sale at concessions stands for $1
• 100 Water fountains operational in stadium
• Officers at gates looking out for fans in heat distress and directing to aid stations
• Stephen C. O'Connell Center via Gate 1 open for football fans during the second half to watch the game on the big screens and cool down

*Spectators must have a football ticket for entrance

General Guidelines for High-Temperature Days

• Wear loose fitting clothing and a hat
• Sunscreen of at least 30 SPF - repeat application
• Get out of the sun if dizzy
• Drink plenty of fluids - water and Gatorade
• Avoid excess alcohol - it will compound heat problems
• If you have G-1 respiratory or cardiac disease be especially careful
• Go immediately to an aid station if you need help

Gator Fan Fest
Prior to the game, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., fans can visit the Verizon Gator FanFest outside of Gate 2 of the O’Connell Center to listen to the pre-game Gator Network broadcast and visit corporate partner booths. The first 5,000 fans will receive hand towels as part of the GatorShade Project (Skin Cancer Prevention Awareness). Fans can participate in the Gators’ Canned Goods Challenge for Kids. Non-perishable food will be collected by members of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) outside of Gate 2 of the O’Connell Center. Donations will benefit Bread of the Mighty Food Bank. The first 15,000 fans that enter the stadium will receive hand fans courtesy of the Florida Lottery.

ORIGIN....