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Villanova Fans Climb Poles After National Championship Win

VILLANOVA, Pa. (CBS) -- Villanova fans rushed onto the streets, some climbing light poles, moments after their basketball team won their second title in three years.

Officials tell CBS Philly that poles around the Villanova were grease ahead of the big game.

Dave Tedjeske, the director of public safety at Villanova University, says security has greased the lightpoles to make sure students can't climb them and will have all hands on deck to keep everyone safe. Radnor Township Police Deputy Superintendent Chris Flanagan told CBS Philly they recommended Villanova to do so. It is not known what the poles were greased with.

"We are going to let people celebrate and have a good time as long as they are safe," said Flanagan.

But that didn't some of the few Nova fans from climbing on Monday night.

 

Businesses Prepping For Crowds Ahead Of Nova Game

Philadelphia police famously greased the poles ahead of both the NFC Championship game and then Super Bowl LII. The first time around they used Crisco, but that didn't work too well as people were still able to climb up them, so they switched to hydraulic fluid for the Super Bowl.

Radnor Township police activated its Emergency Operations Center during the game.

The celebration was peaceful Monday night, despite small fires erupting in the crowd.

Police have not reported injuries or arrests as of early Tuesday morning.

campus celebration at villanova
Credit: (CBS3)

There are some temporary road closures in effect due to the celebration on East Lancaster and Ithan Avenues.

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Authorities are asking residents to consider the following:

·         Keep Lights on around properties – Notify neighbors if you are planning on a party/game watch at your house

·         Secure any loose items in front yard - Obey all traffic laws and local parking restrictions

·         Park Cars in Driveways – Lock your cars

·         Plan to have crowds/delays in the immediate area of Villanova – add extra time for reservations/plans

·         Keep vigilante for any criminal activity from strangers in the area – Notify Police via 911 of any suspicious activity

 

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