CINCINNATI -- An Ohio amusement park is installing walk-through metal detectors at its entrance gates to screen all guests coming into the park.

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Kings Island Beefs Up Security

Park officials at Paramount Kings Island near Cincinnati said they plan to inspect bags, purses and backpacks. They're encouraging people to pack lightly and leave anything that's not essential at home or in the car.

Kings Island spokesman Jeff Siebert said guests will have a chance to put banned items back in their cars but he didn't give specific examples of what those items might be.

"Every year, we review all of our policies and procedures, and this year, we decided to go ahead and implement a walk-through metal detector security system for our guests' peace of mind and our own peace of mind," Siebert told Cincinnati television station WLWT Tuesday.

Cincinnati resident Linda Ernst said she thinks increased security is a good idea for Kings Island.

"It's a big park and it draws a lot of people from all over the country, so it could be an easy target," she said.

Added Donna Malle: "It's sad that we'd have to it, but it's a good idea."

The park north of Cincinnati opens for the season on April 12.