The SC State Fair is making safety improvements ahead of opening day

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) – Fair staff have updated safety guidelines ahead of the 155th South Carolina State Fair.

One of the most noticeable changes you'll see at the entrances to the fair include metal detectors.

Matt Laschuma, security director for the State Fair, said they are primarily used for weapon detection.

The emphasis on the need for security measures was expressed following reports of shots fired at the Orangeburg County Fair on Saturday.

“Yeah, I mean, we feel bad for the people and the organizers in Orangeburg,” Laschuma said. “We know her personally. They do very similar things to us, as you know. We need to take these additional steps, so it's the improvements in youth policy, it's the improvements in the clear pocket. It’s all the extra measures we’re taking to limit exposure.”

This year, people under 18 must be accompanied by a parent from Sunday to Thursday from 5:00 p.m. and all day on Friday and Saturday.

The State Fair Administration said this change was made on the advice of Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott.

Additionally, the clear bag guidelines have been updated. Only clear backpacks, tote bags, belt bags or purses are permitted for entry.

Exceptions can be made for baby diaper bags, special medications and camera equipment.

These bags must be marked and the owner must receive a corresponding wristband before he or his bag is allowed to enter the fair.

“We used to have a section in our clear bag policy that allowed people to bring small clutch bags,” Laschuma said. “We eliminated that.”

A comprehensive guide to the 2024 State Fair can be found here.

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