BUENA PARK, Calif. — After fights broke out at Knott’s Berry Farm last weekend, park officials unveiled a new policy that requires underage visitors to be accompanied by an adult chaperone.
The new policy, which takes effect Friday, was released after the park was forced to close for nearly four hours Saturday after “multiple fights” and panicked stampedes, KCBS-TV reported.
The new policy will apply to guests on Fridays and Saturdays at Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark “until further notice.” Guests 17 years old and younger must be accompanied to the park by a person at least 21 years old, and the chaperone must show valid identification and a date of birth and must be available by telephone throughout their visit.
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— Knott's Berry Farm (@knotts) July 20, 2022
Park officials said one chaperone may accompany up to three minors, KTTV reported. Minors found in the park without a chaperone will be ejected, KCBS reported. Patrons who violate the park’s personal conduct policy will be ejected without refund, officials said.
“For decades, Knott’s Berry Farm has been a place where families and friends come together to enjoy our one-of-a-kind park,” officials said in a statement. “Millions of guests have counted on us for their daily dose of wholesome family fun, and we’re committed to keeping that promise going forward.”
At least three people were injured in Saturday night’s fight and two of them were taken to an area hospital, KTTV reported.
The theme park’s code of conduct already prohibits fighting or physical aggression of any kind, KRON-TV reported. That includes offensive language or gestures, unruly or disruptive behavior and weapons of any kind.
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