Worlds of Fun, a popular theme park in Kansas City, Missouri, has updated its chaperone policy. This change comes after an incident on September 13, 2025, where reports of gunshots led to park evacuation. Authorities later determined the sounds were from fireworks, not gunfire. The new policy requires all guests aged 17 and under to be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older for entry.
Key Takeaways
- Worlds of Fun now requires guests 17 and under to have a chaperone aged 21 or older.
- The previous chaperone policy applied only to guests 15 and under.
- The policy change follows a September 13 incident involving fireworks mistaken for gunshots.
- The park aims to maintain a positive and safe environment for all visitors.
New Chaperone Age Requirements Implemented
Effective September 18, 2025, Worlds of Fun has increased the age requirement for chaperones. The park announced this update to its guest entry rules. This revision means that any visitor who is 17 years old or younger must enter the park with an adult. The accompanying adult must be at least 21 years old.
Previously, the chaperone policy was less strict. It only applied to guests who were 15 years old or younger. The park's management stated that this adjustment is part of their commitment to guest safety and experience. They believe the new rules will help ensure a family-friendly atmosphere.
Policy Details
- New Chaperone Age: 21 years or older
- Guests Requiring Chaperone: 17 years or younger
- Effective Date: September 18, 2025
Incident Prompts Policy Review
The decision to update the chaperone policy directly follows a significant event on September 13, 2025. On that evening, Worlds of Fun was hosting the first night of its Halloween Haunt event. During the event, reports of possible gunshots circulated through the park. This led to widespread concern and a subsequent evacuation of the premises.
Investigations later confirmed that the sounds were not gunshots. Instead, they were attributed to fireworks. Despite this clarification, the incident caused confusion and panic among guests. The park acknowledged the disruption and began reviewing its security protocols and guest entry requirements.
"We believe these changes will help ensure that Worlds of Fun continues to have a positive atmosphere where generations of families and friends can gather for a day of safe fun and good food," park leaders stated on their official website. "Millions of guests have counted on us for exactly that, and we will continue to deliver on that promise for generations to come."
Entry Verification and ID Requirements
Worlds of Fun has also clarified its age verification process. Guests who are 18 years old may be asked to show a valid, government-issued identification at the ticket entrance. This ID must include their date of birth. This measure helps the park confirm a guest's age when there is a question about their eligibility for unaccompanied entry.
If a guest cannot verify their age with appropriate identification, the park reserves the right to deny them entry. This rule applies to all visitors, including those with pre-purchased tickets and season pass holders. The park emphasizes that these steps are crucial for maintaining order and safety.
Background on Theme Park Security
Theme parks frequently update their security policies to adapt to evolving safety concerns. These updates often include stricter entry rules, enhanced surveillance, and clear codes of conduct. The goal is to balance an enjoyable guest experience with necessary security measures to prevent incidents and ensure public safety.
Enhanced Security Measures for Halloween Haunt
For the Halloween Haunt event, which was underway during the September 13 incident, Worlds of Fun has implemented additional security requirements. After 6:00 p.m. during this event, a specific bag policy is in effect. All bags brought into the park must be no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches.
Each guest is permitted to carry only one bag that meets these dimensions. This restriction aims to reduce potential security risks and speed up entry processes during high-attendance events. Furthermore, guests who leave the park after 6:00 p.m. on Halloween Haunt nights will not be allowed to re-enter.
Park's Commitment to Safety
Worlds of Fun utilizes various security technologies to monitor the park. Security personnel are equipped with body-worn cameras. The park also uses an extensive network of surveillance cameras throughout its grounds. These tools help staff observe activities and respond quickly to any issues that may arise.
The park's Code of Conduct outlines expected behavior from all guests. It emphasizes respect for other visitors and park staff. Adherence to these rules is essential for everyone's safety and enjoyment. The updated policies are a direct reflection of the park's ongoing efforts to uphold these standards.
- Surveillance: Park uses surveillance cameras and body-worn cameras.
- Bag Policy: For Halloween Haunt after 6:00 p.m., bags must be 12"x12"x6" or smaller.
- Re-entry: No re-entry after 6:00 p.m. during Halloween Haunt.
These measures collectively aim to enhance the overall safety and security of the park for all visitors. Worlds of Fun continues to review its policies to ensure a positive experience for families and friends.
