New Chaperone Policy At GA Six Flags Targets Teens, Promotes Safety

AUSTELL, GA — Visitors of Six Flags Over Georgia who are age 15 and younger will require a chaperone after a new policy at the popular park goes into effect Friday.

Chaperones must be at least 21-years-old, park officials said. Six Flags will enforce the new policy at 4 p.m. daily, although park officials said the policy could be enforced earlier in the day.

"The safety of our guests and associates has always been our top priority. We're dedicated to keeping our park a place where families and friends can enjoy fun and immersive experiences together," park officials said Monday in a Facebook post.

The move comes after a 15-year-old boy was injured in a shooting on opening day in March at the Austell theme park, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported Monday. The boy, who faced unknown charges, was shot by Cobb County Police who were responding to a massive brawl, the news outlet reported.

Sometime after the shooting, the AJC said Cobb public safety leaders pondered ways to minimize crime at Six Flags.

The new chaperone policy read in part:

"Parents or guardians are responsible for the behavior of their minor children. Appropriate behavior and supervision are the responsibility of the parent/guardian and is always expected. In addition to our chaperone policy, we strongly recommend that minors (under 18) be accompanied by an adult. The park does not assume any responsibility or liability for unattended minors. Parents/guardians may be held legally liable for all acts of the children under their care."

Chaperones must show a valid photo ID, which displays a date of birth, upon admission.

Park officials advise a chaperone can accompany up to 10 people age 15 and younger a day.

"In addition, the chaperone must accompany their party during entry, remain inside the park during the visit and be available by phone throughout their stay," park officials said.

Any visitor who is at least 16-years-old may be asked to show ID to verify their age. People may not be afforded access into the park if they cannot show proof of age, park officials said.

Furthermore, if a person age 15 and younger is found inside of the park without a chaperone, park officials said they may be asked to leave.

"This chaperone requirement applies to all Six Flags Over Georgia ticket and season pass holders," park officials said.

See the new chaperone policy in full via Six Flags Over Georgia.