Rochdale Football Club once again wishes to remind supporters about the dangers of pyrotechnics and smoke bombs, ahead of Saturday's game against Northampton Town.
Several devices were let off in both ends of the stadium at our match against Salford City last Saturday.
At least one of these, in the terracing where the Dale supporters were housed, caused one of our fans to require urgent medical attention due to breathing difficulties.
This is the latest of several incidents involving pyrotechnic devices at our matches this season, which is completely unacceptable.
Fortunately, the supporter who was taken ill at the Peninsula Stadium recovered following medical attention and was able to return home that evening.
The use of pyrotechnics and smoke bombs inside football stadia is not only illegal, but also incredibly dangerous and can have severe consequences.
The club are working with the relevant authorities to identify those responsible, and remind supporters that are involved, at any match, who could face potential criminal proceedings and/or a potential football banning order.
Rochdale Football Club is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all supporters and will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone found to be involved in the use of pyrotechnics.
The club have the authority to ban individuals using pyrotechnics from attending matches at the Crown Oil Arena.
However, whilst we can refuse to sell away tickets and official travel packages to individuals, we cannot ban people from attending away fixtures or other football matches. Only a footballing banning order, issued by the police, can stop individuals from attending all football matches.
We are urging supporters who can provide any information, regarding the use of pyrotechnics and smoke bombs last Saturday, to contact the club and share that information, which will be passed on to the relevant authorities. Please contact us via office@rochdaleafc.co.uk.
Earlier this season, The FA, Premier League and EFL came together to introduce new measures and stronger sanctions across the game to tackle the increased anti-social and criminal behaviours recently seen within football grounds and underline the importance of a safe matchday environment.
We encourage all supporters to read this information HERE. From the start of Season 2022/23, all identified offenders will be reported by clubs to the police and prosecution could result in a permanent criminal record, which may affect their employment and education, and could result in a prison sentence.
Love football. Protect the game.