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- WS/FCS Event Safety and Security Clear Bag Rules
WS/FCS Event Safety and Security Clear Bag Rules
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To provide a safe and secure environment for our parents, community members, students, and staff, beginning the week of September 13, 2021, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools is instituting a clear bag rule for all school events. This means all visitors are prohibited from entering school events with camera cases, briefcases, backpacks, cinch bags, large purses, and similar items. Approved bags include clear, gallon-sized zip storage bags, clear totes (12”x 6”x 12”) and small purses. Spectator chairs and blankets will be allowed but are subject to search.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How many bags can each person bring into WS/FCS athletic venues?
One large clear bag – either a one-gallon zip style bag or a 12" by 6" by 12" clear bag – plus a small purse-type clutch. The larger clear bag must be a standard 12" by 6" by 12" made of clear PVC vinyl and is easily searched. The one-gallon zip style bag is readily available, inexpensive, and easily searched. The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and is easily searched.
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Can fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones, or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?
Yes. Binoculars or a camera can be carried into the venue if they are not in their own bag. This is not a restriction on items that visitors have previously been able to bring into the stadium. It is only a restriction on the type of container used to carry items.
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Are seat cushions or spectator chairs allowed to be carried into the WS/FCS venues?
Yes, but they are subject to search. They should not be in a bag or other container.
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What about bringing blankets in cold weather?
Yes, but they will be subject to a search.
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What happens if I show up at a venue with a bag that is not permitted?
Visitors carrying bags that do not meet the criteria will be turned away from the venue at or near the gates. They will have the opportunity to return the prohibited items to their car.
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If I have certain items that I need to bring into a venue for medical reasons and they won't fit in the clear bag, what do I do?
An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection.
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Are all purses prohibited?
No. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, are permitted along with either the 12" by 6" by 12" clear tote bag or the one-gallon freezer bag. This should enable you to carry the same items you have in previous years and speed entry into the venue for all visitors because it will take less time to screen bags. Shorter lines mean fewer hassles. We encourage visitors not to bring any bags but have created a policy that balances guest needs with improved public safety and convenience.
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Do I have to put everything I'm carrying into the permissible bags?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the venue, not items that you normally bring to a event. Therefore, you can carry in your pockets or jacket keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc., if you choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch. And you can carry a blanket over your arms, and binoculars and/or camera around your neck or in your hands without the case. You can use the clear bag and clutch to carry other items. You will continue to have the flexibility to bring a wide variety of approved items into the venue. Every member of your group may carry in a permissible bag.
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What will happen if a gun, knife or other prohibited item is found during a bag search?
As before, law enforcement authorities will be on site and will handle violations of this nature.
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Will the media be allowed to bring bags into the venue?
Yes, appropriately credentialed members of the media will be allowed to bring bags into the venue.
