As State Fair begins, you'll notice its newest feature before you even enter the gates!

MILWAUKEE -- The 2016 Wisconsin State Fair begins Thursday, August 4th, and you'll notice the fair's newest feature before you even enter the gates!

"This year we have, for the first time, put in metal detectors at all seven of our public admission gates," Kathleen O'Leary, Wisconsin State Fair interim CEO said.

Metal detectors at Wisconsin State Fair

Kathleen O'Leary, Wisconsin State Fair interim CEO

O'Leary said she tries to provide every fair visitor with three things: safety, first and foremost -- a clean park, and plenty of fun.

O'Leary said the metal detectors have been considered for the fair for the past few years.

"When we knew that there were 38 available, and that we could actually have them. That's when the wheels were put into motion that this would be the year that we were going to have the detectors," O'Leary said.

Wisconsin State Fair

Wisconsin State Fair

O'Leary said while this technology represents a new addition, the old policy regarding contraband continues.

"Weapons have never been allowed at the Wisconsin State Fair, so obviously, they are not allowed again this year," O'Leary said.

Neither is bad behavior -- which will be monitored by surveillance cameras and crews.

"We have hundreds of cameras, all throughout the interior and exterior of the Fair Park. We have 110 sworn police officers. We have 550 public safety officers. We have mounted police," O'Leary said.

Wisconsin State Fair

O'Leary said State Fair Park also has a command post, which operates 24/7 during the fair's 11-day run, and includes State Fair and Milwaukee police officers.

Wisconsin State Fair