The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the Miami Heat fan experience.
The Heat is increasing the number of fans allowed to attend games at the AAA to about 4,000, but that’s still just 20 percent of the capacity of 19,600.
That cut in capacity is also the foundation of the strict COVID-19 health and safety guidelines created for a safe and clean environment. Sections of seats will be designated for fully vaccinated fans only. Fans drive around the back of the arena to the P2 garage and a masked parking attendant is waiting to scan a digital parking pass with hand sanitizer.
Gates 1 and 5 are open for the general public, with COVID-19-sniffing dogs waiting to screen fans, and arena doors open one hour before tipoff.
Gov. Ron DeSantis said he will issue emergency rules this week that prevent businesses from requiring customers to show proof of vaccinations through COVID19 “passports” and will ask the Legislature to pass a permanent ban, but the Heat are moving forward with its plan to use vaccinated fan sections.
Part of the security process to enter the American Airlines Arena, is that all fans will be screened by a dog for the disease, and then required to take a health questionnaire once cleared. Fans above the age of two will also be required to wear face masks during their entire time in the arena unless they are eating or drinking.
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