Central Washington State Fair Introduces Metal Detectors for the First Time

For years security at the Central Washington State Fair has consisted of security workers looking in purses and bags for banned items like knives and guns.

A BIG CHANGE IN SECURITY THIS YEAR

However this year there's a big change. For the first time you'll be required to walk through metal detectors. Yakima State Fair Park CEO Kathy Kramer says the machines are rapid detectors but there may be a short wait this year to make sure the fair stays safe. She says many people like the increased security and appreciate the new procedures. Fair officials say they will still check for illegal items in purses and other things people carry into the event with the help of metal detectors.

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YOU MAY NOT EVEN NOTICE SECURITY

All the other security you may not even notice it but it's an important part of the Central Washington State Fair. Yakima Police Officers are working closely with fair security to make sure your visit is fun and safe. And while many Officers are working at the fair over the next 10-days department officials say that won't impact the number of Officers who work the streets of Yakima.

ARE YOU CONCERNED?

Once inside, security officials say they hope you never have to be concerned about your safety or security. In fact police say there's a zero tolerance policy for anyone causing problems on the fairgrounds. The Yakima Police Department Gang Unit along with many patrol officers working overtime will be at the fair working closely with fair security to keep the area safe and you make sure you have a great time.