Sacramento, CA September 4, 2015 – As Sacramentans get ready for the final holiday weekend of summer, Sacramento County’s Department of Regional Parks is reminding visitors to have fun and be safe. People of all ages should be aware of the rules and regulations at County parks. These rules promote safety and help preserve the parks.
- Prevent Wildfires:
- All fireworks are prohibited in Regional Parks.
- Smoking is only allowed in developed picnic areas, asphalt surfaces, golf courses and on levee tops in the American River Parkway.
- Open flame fires are not allowed and barbequing is only permitted in designated picnic areas.
- Be Safe in the Water:
- All children under 13 years of age must wear a life preserver when accessing any public water within the County (Sacramento County Ordinance 13.08.301).
- Everyone who uses the river should bring and wear a life jacket.
- Sacramento County recommends that people of all ages and abilities use caution when swimming or boating. Low water on the river causes swift currents in some locations and exposes branches, trees and sharp rocks that can damage inflatable boats, canoes and kayaks.
- The Kids Don’t Float program, a partnership funded by the American River Parkway Foundation, provides free loaner life vests at seven locations on the Parkway.
- The low water level on the American River means that float times will be one to two hours longer than normal. Rafters should start early and pack extra water, food and sunscreen.
- Alcohol Prohibited for the Holiday Weekend:
- Beginning on Saturday, September 5 through Monday, September 7, alcohol consumption and possession of open containers is prohibited on the shore and river of the American River Parkway between Watt and Hazel Avenues.
- County Rangers will also continue to enforce the year round alcohol restrictions from Watt to Discovery Park.
- Parking Fee Increase:
- The number of visitors to Regional Parks dramatically increases during holiday weekends, which increases the cost to staff and maintain the parks. To offset these costs and to provide maximum staffing and enforcement, the vehicle entrance fee will increase to the following at all County parks:
- $8 for single vehicles
- $13 for oversized vehicles and vehicles towing watercraft
- This increase will not affect annual pass holders. Visitors who regularly enjoy County Parks are encouraged to purchase Annual Parks Pass to save money on entry fees and to help keep our parks safe and clean.
For more information on Sacramento County Regional Parks, visit www.sacparks.net. Call 3-1-1 or 916-875-7275 to report any law enforcement issues, non-emergency accidents, or maintenance issues. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.
Media Contact:
Karen Doron, Communication & Media Officer
916-874-4667
