Marathon 2015: Enjoy but be wise

Get on board. The 2015 Boston Marathon is passing through Framingham on April 20.

Join the fun, but be mindful of guidelines set by the Department of Home Security's "If you SEE Something, SAY Something" national campaign while attending the Marathon race this year. Spectators are being asked for their cooperation in following reasonable and common sense guidelines that will help ensure the safety and security of participants, volunteers and spectators.

Antique postcard (c: 1910) and Marathon runners (2013) composite

Spectators intending on watching the 2015 Boston Marathon from anywhere along the 26.2 mile course should expect a significant presence of uniformed and plain clothed police officers. Spectators approaching viewing areas on the course, or in viewing areas on the course, may be asked to pass through security checkpoints, and law enforcement officers or contracted private security personnel may ask to inspect bags and other items being carried. To avoid delays, spectators are encouraged not to carry any of the items listed below.


Additionally, spectators along the entire race route – including in Hopkinton, Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, Brookline and Boston -- are encouraged to carry personal items in clear plastic bags. Using a clear plastic bag to carry personal items will enhance public safety and speed security screening. In all cases, spectators should keep their personal items under their immediate control at all times. Unattended items may cause delays.

The B.A.A. and all public safety agencies supporting the Boston Marathon encourage the public to actively participate in the See Something Say Something campaign. Spectators are asked to be aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious conduct or items to the closest law enforcement officer or by calling 9-1-1.

Please note that spectators along the course are discouraged from possessing any of the items listed below. Possession of any of these items may result in delays when passing through security checkpoints and enhanced screening.

Click on picture to enlarge

• Weapons or items of any kind that may be used as weapons, including firearms, knives, mace, etc.

• Backpacks or any similar item carried over the shoulder.

• Suitcases and rolling bags/rollers.

• Coolers.

• Glass containers or cans.

• Flammable liquids, fuels, fireworks or explosives.

• Any container capable of carrying more than 1 liter of liquid.

• Handbags or packages or bulky items larger than 12 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches.

• Large blankets/comforters, duvets, sleeping bags.

• Costumes covering the face or any non-form fitting, bulky outfits extending beyond the perimeter of the body.

• Props (including sporting equipment and military and fire gear).