Horry County Schools will implement a “Clear Bag Policy” for football and basketball games.
A link to the district’s policy was posted on North Myrtle Beach High School’s Facebook page on Wednesday evening.
The policy is also posted on Socastee High School’s website and Aynor High School’s website.
The policy states “In order to provide a safe and secure environment for our parents, community members, students, athletes, staff, and officials, Horry County Schools will implement a Clear Bag Policy for all football and basketball games effective August 2018.”
According to the policy, the types of bags prohibited include:
– Purses larger than a clutch bag
– Briefcases
– Backpacks
– Fanny packs
– Cinch/Drawstring bags
– Luggage of any kind
– Computer bags/Camera bags
The following types of bags are listed in the policy as approved items:
– Clear plastic or vinyl bags that do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
– One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag
– Small clutch bags no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” – approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap
– Medically necessary items (after proper inspection at the entrance)
– Diaper bags (with an infant/toddler – after proper inspection at the entrance)
“Fans with a prohibited bag will not be permitted inside the stadium or gymnasium. Fans will need to return the prohibited bag to their vehicle,” the policy also states. “Basketball and football games are the two sports offered in Horry County Schools that have the largest crowds in attendance. We will continue to monitor attendance at other sporting events to determine future changes.”
According to the release, the district is adopting the policy because “This proactive measure will enhance the safety inside our stadiums and gymnasiums and will speed up the screening process.”
Other prohibited items listed in the policy include:
– Coolers
– Weapons/concealed weapons
– Alcoholic beverages
– Containers of any kind
– Aerosol and spray cans
– Mace/pepper spray
– Animals (except service animals)
– Laser lights, strobe lights, and pointers
– Irritants such as artificial noisemakers
– Fireworks/explosives
– Inflatables (beach balls, etc.)
– Masks of any kind
– Drones
The full policy can be read below or here.
