Park Safety

Two boys hanging from a play feature

Park visitors deserve a safe park experience. JaxParks and the City of Jacksonville are taking steps to improve safety in public parks.

Initiatives in place include the following:

Important safety tips to help you, your family and friends have a safe park experience:

Please report any vandalism, questionable behavior or other criminal activity to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.
- *Non-emergency number: 630-0500
- *Emergency number: 911
Carry personal identification and a cell phone with you if possible.
Be vigilant and aware of where you are and who is around you.
Be sure to closely supervise your children as they play in the park.
Do not allow children to stay at parks unattended. Instruct your children on how to respond to strangers.
Use park fields and equipment only for their intended purpose.
Stay well hydrated. Water is your best friend in helping prevent heat-related illnesses.
In cases of severe weather, leave the park as quickly as possible or proceed with appropriate emergency measures.

WALKING – JOGGING – BIKING

Pedestrians should walk or jog facing oncoming traffic.
Do not take shortcuts or dirt paths through wooded areas. Stay on well-lighted, populated pathways.
Evening and night walkers, joggers and bikers should wear bright clothing with reflectors; use a flashlight and travel in pairs or groups.
Be especially alert when running. Avoid using headphones because they mask important danger signs, such as a person approaching from behind.
Trust your instincts. If you believe you are being followed, don't hesitate to request help from other citizens or police.
Bikers should pedal with traffic and must obey all traffic control signs (e.g. Stop, One Way, Road Closed) Wearing a bike helmet can decrease the severity of a bike accident head injury and maybe even save your life.
Wearing a bicycle helmet is mandatory for children under the age of 16.

PROTECTING YOUR AUTOMOBILE AND BICYCLE

Lock your automobile with the windows up. Do not take unnecessary valuables with you on your outing, and never leave any valuables unattended in the park or in the car, even in the locked trunk.
Park only in designated parking areas.
Parking on the grassy areas may kill the grass and is a potential fire hazard.
Be observant of individuals loitering near parked bikes or cars. The loitering persons may be planning to steal a bike or something from an unattended car.
Lock your unattended bike, even if it will be unattended just for a minute. Use a high quality hardened steel U-shaped lock. Avoid locks that can easily be cut, picked, or broken.
Never allow a stranger to ride a bike even if the person promises to just go a short distance.