As the South Carolina State Fair gets ready to open its gates this Wednesday, safety is top of mind for organizers expecting more than 400,000 visitors over the next two weeks. Matt LaSchuma, director of security at the South Carolina State Fair, said safety starts at the gates, beginning with what fairgoers can and can’t bring in.

“The only liquid that you can bring to the fairgrounds is a sealed bottle of water,” LaSchuma said. “There’s no open containers allowed on the fairgrounds no alcohol, of course.”

He said safety checks don’t stop there. Weather is closely monitored, and rides have strict limits when it comes to wind and rain. Fairgoers are also encouraged to follow the clear bag policy to help speed up entry.

“There are certain wind MPH limits in place where a ride has to stop

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