Six Flags Over Georgia announces new chaperone policy

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - On Monday, Six Flags Over Georgia announced a new chaperone policy that will be in effect starting on Friday.

The policy will be in effect daily by 4 p.m. — or earlier if the park sees fit.

“I think they should have a chaperone because some of the kids act out sometimes, and I think they need people that are watching them,” said Judiah, a teenager visiting the park.

“I think better safe than sorry. It gets wild out here these days,” said Tony Parks, a father who brought his daughter to the park.

Guests 15 and younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who’s at least 21 to enter and remain in the park, according to the park.

Six Flags said those 16 and older could be asked to show a valid government ID with a date of birth to enter. If they can’t, they may be denied entry, according to Six Flags Over Georgia.

“I think the new rule is really good. It’s something that I , I know that our local law enforcement s, and many of the residents that live in and around the Six Flags area that reached out to me directly and suggested and asked that we look at putting some sort of ordinance or chaperone policy in place,” said Mableton Mayor Michael Owens.

Those 15 and younger who are found inside the park without a chaperone when the policy is in effect will be asked to leave, Six Flags said.

“We believe these actions will help ensure that Six Flags Over Georgia remains what it has been for decades — a place where generations of families and friends can enjoy a one-of-a-kind park full of homegrown experiences and immersive entertainment,” the park said in a statement.

The policy is being put in place to help “ensure that all guests have a fun and enjoyable experience and that they leave happy and eager to visit again”, according to Six Flags Over Georgia.

“Our guests expect and deserve a safe, family-friendly atmosphere when they visit Six Flags Over Georgia,” the park said.

Owens said he wholeheartedly agrees with Six Flags that safety should be the top priority.

“I applaud them for taking this step. It’s a proactive measure that underscores their commitment to creating a safe environment for everyone. I have been an advocate for such changes as I have engaged with residents living in and around the Six Flags area who expressed concerns about unaccompanied minors at the park,” Owens said. “I am thankful for the strong partnership between Six Flags and the City of Mableton. Their commitment to safety and community well-being is commendable, and I am optimistic about the positive impact these measures will have on our community.”

Owens says the chaperone policy is one of several steps the theme park is making to be safer after a 15-year-old was shot near Six Flags Over Georgia in March.

“Additional lighting was put in, better lighting was put in, as well as signage, adjustments to the pickup and dropoff for when visitors would come, as well as just a more prominent police presence,” said Owens.

MORE COVERAGE:

15-year-old shot by officer near Six Flags now facing charges, Cobb police say

15-year-old in critical condition after being shot by officer near Six Flags Over Georgia, GBI says

Person hospitalized after firefight with officers near Six Flags Over Georgia, Cobb police say

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