Gabriella Sandoval, Staff Writer
Haunted houses across the world vary in design, visuals, execution, and levels of scariness. Although, there are some far more intricate than they initially seem. Known as the “scariest haunted house in America” is the notorious McKamey Manor. It has gained national recognition for its over-the-top model of a haunted house. Commonly referred to as a “torture chamber” due to the disturbing scenery and physical interactions, the Mckamey Manor offers a $20,000 cash prize for any attendee that completes the full attraction. This mission has yet to be accomplished.
The McKamey Manor calls for multiple requirements in order to participate in this extreme experience. These requirements include a completed sports physical, a doctor's letter stating physical and mental clarity, and the successful passing of a background check. Participants must also show proof of medical insurance, and sign a detailed 40 page waiver that includes the possible risks of entering the house. These risks include having teeth removed, being tattooed, and having fingernails extracted.
The McKamey Manor advises participants to be in excellent health due to the physically, mentally, and even psychologically demanding environments that participants are prone to endure. Additionally, participants are screened through phone prior to visiting the haunted house, and information is gathered about participants so that the haunted house is tailored to each individual, based on personal fears and phobias. What makes this haunted house unique is how the experience is based on audience participation, where the attendees live out their own horror movie, by being tested to their core.
While average haunted houses prohibit actors to touch and confront participants, the McKamey Manor allows actors to come in contact with participants to deliver brutal and potentially traumatizing interactions. So, unless you can contain your words, this might not be an attraction suitable for you because foul language is not allowed during the whole tour.
It’s no surprise that the McKamey Manor has and still does face harsh criticism and legal scrutiny over safety concerns, the ethics of its scare tactics, and the extremity of its challenges. Despite all of this, there are currently 24,000 people waiting in line to potentially complete the haunted house and claim the prize offer.
When choosing a haunted house to visit this year, take your own fears and phobias into account, and enter at your own risk. If you're not a huge fan of bugs, snakes, being buried alive, or being lowered into a tank full of eels, visiting the McKamey Manor isn't in your best interest.