West Manchester Township Police and the York Fair have outlined security procedures for the 2013 York Fair that begins today. All backpacks, bags, packages, strollers and any items carried into the fair are subject to search. Unlike some fairs that have banned backpacks, the York Fair permits them, but reserves the right to look inside.
As in past years, all backpacks, diaper bags, handbags and packages will be searched before they can be taken onto the Grandstand. No weapons of any kind and no alcoholic beverages can be taken on to the Grandstand
The police and the fair adopted the backpack search policy while understanding that many fairgoers spend an entire day at the fair and need to bring jackets or personal items in some kind of bag. Security officials at the fair advise people to bring only what they need.
“With parking inside the grounds, many items can be left inside your vehicle,” said Fair President Gene Schenck. “If you are attending a Grandstand concert you should avoid bringing bags because it will take longer to get to your seat if you bring a bag that will need to be searched.”
West Manchester Township Police and other law enforcement agencies at the fair urge all fairgoers to report any suspicious activity. “If you see something, say something” is a good policy that supports law enforcement. If you happen to see something that does not look right, report it to one of the many police officers on the grounds or go to the Fair Police Headquarters under the Grandstand Annex. Citizens can also call 911 if they view suspicious activity and cannot find an officer.
“We spend hours planning the security operation and we try to make improvements every year,” said SGT Richard Trout of West Manchester Twp Police. This year it was clear that the bag issue needed to be addressed. After Discussion with York Fair officials, we found a policy that permits families to bring the items they need while we work to provide a safe environment for everyone. Officers will be using their discretion to enforce these new rules.”