How to Pass Through Lancaster County Prison's Metal Detector on Your First Try
Lancaster County Prison is strict about metal-detector screening. Plan ahead with the right clothing, empty pockets, and any medical documentation—and you'll likely clear it without burning an attempt.
Every visitor at Lancaster County Prison must clear the metal detector, and you only get two tries. No exceptions. Walk up wearing or carrying something that triggers it, and a quick "try again" can turn into a denied visit if you can't clear on the second pass.
Metal detector screening isn’t the only thing that can slow you down at the door. Bring a current, government-issued photo ID, and make sure the address on it matches what’s on the inmate’s visitation list. If your ID doesn’t line up, you can lose time (or your visit) before you ever get to the detector.
Watch your bra choice: A bra is required for visitors, and Lancaster County Prison specifically warns that underwire bras may trigger the metal detector. Wear a non-underwire option if you can - don't waste one of your two attempts on something avoidable.
- ✓ Wear a bra (required), and avoid underwire if you want the best chance of clearing on the first pass
- ✓ Do a quick “metal check” before you step up: jewelry, safety pins, decorative pins, and metal hair accessories all have to clear the detector
- ✓ If something on your outfit is even a little questionable, swap it now - your goal is to avoid using up one of your two opportunities
If you have a medical device or implant, bring supporting documentation with you. Lancaster County Prison requires that paperwork at check-in, and having it ready can prevent confusion or delays when you go through screening.
- Gather your documentation before you leave - bring the supporting paperwork for your medical device or implant.
- Present it at check-in - have it out and ready so you’re not digging for it at the window.
- Tell staff before you screen - mention your device/implant before you step through the metal detector so the process stays smooth.
Practical Pre Screening
- ✓ Bring your current government-issued photo ID, and make sure the address matches the inmate’s visitation list
- ✓ Empty your pockets and remove metal items that could trigger the detector
- ✓ Wear a bra (required) and avoid underwire bras, which may cause you to fail to clear
- ✓ If you have a medical device/implant, bring supporting documentation for check-in
- ✓ Plan to secure unauthorized personal items before screening instead of trying to carry them through
- ✓ Remember you only get two opportunities to clear the metal detector - no exceptions
Bringing things you can't take inside - purse, backpack, cell phone? You can secure them in the lobby lockers for $0.50. Bring quarters only. And heads up: Lancaster County Prison isn't responsible for damage or loss of personal items or money stored there.
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