Park District of Highland Park strives to provide safe parks, recreation programs, events, and facilities which balance the need to minimize risk to its participants and yet preserve the fun of the recreation experience.
We endeavor to keep our facilities and programs operating whenever possible. There are times, however, when weather, road conditions, or facility malfunctions dictate that programs and/or services must be canceled or temporarily postponed or entire facilities closed.
In order to provide employees and patrons with a safe and secure environment in which to work and play, the Park District reserves the right to close a particular facility or cancel a program using the following criteria:
Because weather and road conditions can change dramatically as the day progresses, the Park District will monitor weather conditions and announce closing updates throughout the day. Communication regarding any weather-related closings and updates will be posted on the homepage of this website, the Park District Facebook page, and the Chicago Emergency Closing Center. Emails will be sent to customers who have subscribed to the Park District email program.
Strike Guard is a lightning detection system designed to track actual lightning strikes and will sound when lightning is detected within a 10-mile radius. Participants using outdoor facilities should take appropriate shelter when the warning signals are activated. If the weather is threatening but no warning signal is heard or seen, use good judgment and clear the area. Do not wait for the warning signal to activate.
Warning Signal to Suspend Activities and Seek Shelter: the system will sound a siren that can be heard from 2,400 feet away followed by a continuous strobe light. When this siren is heard or the strobe light is seen, park users and program participants should clear the area and seek immediate shelter.
Signal that Outdoor Activities May Resume: once the system has detected that dangerous weather has cleared, 3 short blasts will sound signaling to patrons that it is safe to resume outdoor activities.
Strike Guard systems are solar-powered and are operated year-round between 7am-10pm. Strike Guard sensors are located at Sunset Valley Golf Club (two sensors installed), Hidden Creek AquaPark, Deer Creek/Larry Fink Memorial Park (two sensors installed), West Ridge Park, Park Avenue Boating Facility, Centennial Ice Arena/Danny Cunniff Park (two sensors installed), Sunset Woods Park, the Recreation Center of Highland Park, and Olson Park.
Parents and all adult patrons play a key role in helping us to ensure a safe and fun experience at our pools and swimming beach.
It is Park District policy to provide safe and rewarding programs and facilities for our participants. In keeping with our mission and vision to enrich the quality of life for our community, it is a top priority to provide safe and welcoming recreational opportunities where bullying is not tolerated. Our Board approved Behavior Management Policy and Conduct Ordinance 2013; procedures; and ongoing staff training promotes good sportsmanship and positive attitudes in all of our programs.
If you or someone you may know has been impacted by the Highland Park shooting that occurred in July of 2022, the City of Highland Park Resiliency Division can assist you in accessing resources such as specialized mental health providers, as well as connect you with further resources.
In compliance with Illinois law and to ensure the safety of our patrons, the Park District of Highland Park has Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) located at all its facilities. The Park District has established Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) that include emergency response plans, CPR training, and proper AED usage.
All staff are trained in the District’s EAPs. Staff are trained in CPR and AED based on job type – including front-line staff, lifeguards, coaches, teachers, fitness instructors, park maintenance personnel, and camp counselors. All staff are encouraged to become CPR-certified.
Starting in spring 2025, AEDs will also be in designated areas at Sunset Wood Park, Danny Cunniff Park, and Larry Fink Memorial Park. These AEDs will be accessible from March to October, weather permitting. See below for a complete listing of Park District of Highland Park AED locations
Having AEDs and trained staff available to administer them during emergencies is vital in recreational areas. They provide immediate life-saving intervention in cases of sudden cardiac arrest, which can occur unexpectedly during physical activity. This significantly increases the chances of survival by enabling rapid defibrillation when every second counts, particularly in locations such as gyms, sports fields, swimming pools, and other spaces where people engage in strenuous exercise.
