Texas Police issue special advice for Croatian fans ahead of England clash in Dallas

(Photo credit: Bruno Correia/Public Domain/CC)

HNS informs that Texas police have issued a set of special recommendations for Croatian supporters travelling to Dallas to support the Vatreni in their opening match against England at the FIFA World Cup being hosted across Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The guidance covers local laws, public safety regulations and behaviour expected of visiting supporters.

1. Alcohol Laws and Open Containers

DO ✓

• Consume alcohol only in licensed bars, restaurants and officially designated fan zones.

• Before drinking outdoors, check whether the terrace or outdoor area is part of a licensed premises.

• Keep alcoholic drinks within the boundaries of areas covered by an alcohol licence.

• Always carry valid photo identification. The legal drinking age in the United States is 21.

• Arrange transport before drinking alcohol. Book a ride service or designate a driver who will not be drinking.

DON’T ✗

• Do not consume alcohol on streets, in parks, car parks or on public transport.

• Do not carry open bottles or alcoholic drinks outside licensed premises.

• Do not assume drinking in public is permitted simply because large groups of people are celebrating.

• Do not drive after consuming any amount of alcohol. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, and penalties for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas are severe.

• Do not provide alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. This is a criminal offence.

Note: Public intoxication is an offence in Texas and can result in arrest if a person is intoxicated in a public place to the extent that they pose a danger to themselves or others.

2. Drugs and Controlled Substances

DO ✓

• Keep all prescription medication in its original packaging with clearly visible labels and patient details.

• Carry a doctor’s letter or medical documentation translated into English for medicines containing controlled substances.

• Leave immediately if you find yourself in a situation where illegal drugs are present or being used.

• If it is safe to do so, report suspected drug-related activity to security staff or police.

DON’T ✗

• Do not possess, use, purchase or distribute cannabis or any other illegal drug in Texas.

• Do not carry prescription medication in unlabelled pill boxes, bags or other repackaged containers. Such medication may be treated as a controlled substance.

• Do not accept any substances or products from strangers at fan events, bars or parties.

• Do not cross state or international borders carrying cannabis or drug-related products.

3. Firearms and Weapons Regulations

DO ✓

• Remain calm if you see someone openly carrying a firearm.

• Pay attention to notices and signage at entrances. Most venues and event sites that prohibit weapons clearly display this information.

• Call 911 immediately if an armed individual behaves in a threatening manner or appears unstable.

• Follow all instructions from armed security personnel at stadiums and event venues without hesitation.

DON’T ✗

• Do not stare at, point at or loudly comment on a person carrying a firearm.

• Do not approach an armed individual or attempt to touch their weapon.

• Do not panic or provoke a confrontation simply because someone is openly carrying a firearm.

• Do not attempt to intervene in any incident involving a firearm unless your life is in immediate danger.

Note: Off-duty police officers are permitted to carry firearms inside sports venues and event locations.

4. Public Order and Supporter Behaviour

DO ✓

• Keep celebrations within licensed venues and officially designated fan zones.

• Be mindful of how your group is perceived by people around you.

• Resolve disagreements with other supporters calmly and seek assistance from security staff if necessary.

• Look after members of your group who may be heavily affected by alcohol and help move them away from public areas.

• Stay hydrated. Summers in Texas can be extremely hot, with daytime temperatures often reaching 40°C.

DON’T ✗

• Do not behave in a loud, aggressive or disorderly manner that disturbs public order.

• Do not continue drinking alcohol in public after being instructed to stop by police officers or security staff.

• Do not become involved in physical altercations with other supporters or members of the public.

• Do not block roads, entrances or public walkways, even as part of organised celebrations.

• Avoid using drones at stadiums, during events or in other public spaces.