Family calls on Bombers to implement nut-free zone at stadium for people with allergies

Investors Group Field is slated to open in 2013 in Winnipeg.

A Manitoba family wants the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to designate a section of the team’s new stadium as nut-free so people with allergies can safely attend games.

Kevin Ferguson’s teenage son has a severe peanut allergy and taking him to a game is currently too risky.

“Any little residue will set him into anaphylactic shock,” said Kevin.

In the new stadium, he’d like to see some sort of accommodation made for fans.

“Since they do have alcohol-free zones, just to set aside a zone for people who do have allergies,” said Kevin.

The Bombers said they haven’t made a firm decision, but are examining the matter. A concern they have, however, is that wind may carry peanut shells into the nut-free section.

The Winnipeg Goldeyes have a section at their stadium that is nut-free and the MTS Centre is a nut-free facility.

Health officials said nut allergies affect about two per cent of the population.

While a nut-free zone could be difficult to enforce, health officials said the idea should be considered for the Bombers stadium.

“If they can offer that to them, they are more likely to come and feel confident,” said Dr. Paul Keith from the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

A doctor at the Children’s Hospital said Friday he has been approached by the football club to investigate how big of a risk peanuts pose at the stadium. He is currently researching the issue by talking to parents at his clinic. Once that’s completed, he will provide suggestions for safety to the Bombers before it decides on any new policies.

- with a report from CTV's Jillian Taylor