Before Your First Visit to SCI Mercer: A Practical Checklist for Visitors

This checklist covers the things that most often trip people up at SCI Mercer - your vehicle, security screening, and what happens if you bring someone who isn't actually visiting. Get these right, and you'll get in, visit, and leave without unnecessary complications.

Vehicle Rules

• ✓ Vehicles must be locked while on prison property.
• ✓ Windows must be rolled up/closed.
• ✓ Equipment such as ladders and toolboxes must be secured.

Plan as if your car will be searched - all visitor vehicles are subject to inspection at SCI Mercer. Keep your vehicle tidy, don't leave valuables in plain sight, and skip bringing anything you wouldn't want questioned or confiscated while you're on the property.

Every visitor at SCI Mercer - regardless of age - goes through a search and metal detector. That includes kids, so build in extra time for your whole group. Go in light: fewer items means fewer delays and fewer chances something becomes an issue at the entrance.

SCI Mercer has no waiting area. Don't bring someone to "wait in the car" or hang around the grounds - anyone not visiting must leave the property entirely. If you need a ride or you're coordinating childcare, plan that handoff off-site. Otherwise you'll be stuck choosing between missing your visit and breaking the grounds rule.

Any violation of visiting regulations at SCI Mercer can result in suspended visiting privileges. The most common problems are avoidable: ignoring on-grounds rules (like the no-waiting-area policy), issues during screening, or bringing items that raise security concerns. One mistake can cost you future visits - treat the rules accordingly.

If you're denied entry or something seems off during your visit, contact the facility directly. You can also email DOC Central Office at ra-crdocinmatevss@pa.gov. Write down what happened while it's fresh - date, time, who you spoke with, and the reason given - so you can explain the issue clearly when you reach out.

1. Lock your vehicle - Vehicles must be locked while on prison property.
2. Roll up/close all windows - Windows must be rolled up/closed.
3. Secure any equipment - Equipment such as ladders and toolboxes must be secured.
4. Keep your car “search-ready” - All visitor vehicles are subject to search.
5. Plan for screening for everyone - Every visitor, regardless of age, is subject to search.
6. Prepare for the metal detector - All visitors must pass through a metal detector.
7. Don’t bring non-visitors to wait - There is no waiting area; anyone who is not visiting must exit the facility grounds.