Monroe County Parks and Public Facilities Safety Guidelines

Park Safety Rules and Injury Prevention in Monroe County, New York

New York State offers some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the Northeast, and Monroe County stands out with its scenic parks, wide trails, and community-centered public areas. Whether you're heading out for a quiet walk at Highland Park or planning a family picnic at Mendon Ponds, safety should always come first. Every year, people experience preventable accidents in these shared spaces because someone overlooked a sign, ignored a weather warning, or failed to pick up after themselves.

At Horn Wright, LLP, we understand how quickly a peaceful afternoon can change when parks and public areas become unsafe. Our premises liability attorneys represent people across New York State who have suffered injuries in public spaces, including Monroe County parks. 

Know the Local Parks: Monroe County’s Green Spaces

Monroe County offers over 20 parks, each with its own layout, features, and natural terrain. Some are perfect for weekend barbecues. Others are better for hiking or cross-country skiing. Each space has different safety considerations.

Durand Eastman Park stretches along the shores of Lake Ontario, offering steep hills, wooded trails, and narrow beach access. Highland Park, known for its lilac collection, draws large crowds during events. Mendon Ponds Park, one of the largest in the area, has deep wooded sections and remote trails.

By understanding what to expect before you visit, you reduce the chance of injury. Consider what activities you’ll do, who’s joining you, and whether the terrain or location suits everyone in your group.

Follow Posted Rules at All Times

Rules posted at trailheads, shelters, and restrooms are legal requirements set by Monroe County and New York State. Many people get hurt because they ignore them. That includes walking pets off-leash, entering restricted areas, or using trails after hours.

In Genesee Valley Park, for example, signs warn against biking on certain pedestrian trails. At Webster Park, you might see seasonal restrictions due to ice or slope hazards. These signs are updated as needed and reflect real-time conditions.

Take a photo of posted rules at the entrance, so you can refer back if needed. Teach kids to spot and follow signs, too.

Use Facilities Responsibly

Public restrooms, shelters, grills, and seating areas make park visits more comfortable, but only if everyone treats them with care. Damaging fixtures, leaving trash, or misusing equipment shortens the life of these spaces and creates safety hazards for others.

Monroe County's Department of Parks handles regular cleaning and maintenance, but the public’s behavior makes a major difference. Leaving food waste can attract animals. Damaging picnic tables can cause splinters or tipping hazards. Improperly disposing of charcoal can start fires.

Before leaving a shelter or restroom:

• Check that you picked up all belongings
• Place all trash in designated bins
• Report any damage or clogged facilities to park staff

Stay on Designated Trails and Paths

Park trails exist to protect both visitors and the environment. Cutting through brush may seem harmless, but it can cause erosion, disturb protected species, or hide trip hazards.

Black Creek Park, with its mix of flat and hilly terrain, has clearly marked paths for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Going off-route in these areas can lead to twisted ankles, unexpected animal encounters, or getting lost, especially in remote sections.

Always bring a printed trail map or download an official version from Monroe County’s parks website. Some parks have QR codes at entrances that let you load current trail conditions. Staying on trails protects you and the local ecosystem.

Respect Wildlife and Plant Life

Feeding squirrels or picking flowers disrupts local ecology. Monroe County is home to species like white-tailed deer, foxes, eastern bluebirds, and various protected plants. Even casual contact can disturb breeding cycles or spread disease.

If you’re walking a dog, keep it leashed and away from animals. Stay quiet when you pass through areas with thick vegetation or tall grasses. Never pick plants, especially in Highland Park, where much of the flora is carefully cultivated.

Respecting nature helps preserve these spaces for future visitors:

• Keep your distance from all wildlife
• Do not feed birds or animals
• Avoid loud noises or playing music from speakers

Understand Weather Hazards

Weather in upstate New York changes fast. That’s especially true near Lake Ontario, where Ontario Beach Park often experiences sudden winds, strong waves, or fog. Rain can turn dirt trails into slippery surfaces in minutes.

Cold weather creates new risks. Snow hides uneven paths, and black ice can form on paved walkways. If you’re visiting a park during winter months, wear appropriate footwear and bring layers.

Before heading out:

• Check the Monroe County Parks website for alerts
• Look at the National Weather Service forecast
• Cancel or reschedule if severe weather is expected

Use Recreation Areas Safely

Playgrounds, athletic fields, and courts need extra care, especially when kids are involved. Play structures may become slippery when wet. Fields often have uneven patches that can trip players. Sports areas attract large crowds where collisions or accidents are more likely.

At Ellison Park, soccer fields are booked solid in warmer months. Always inspect equipment and surfaces before use. If you notice broken parts or missing bolts, avoid the area and alert staff.

For safer recreation:

• Supervise children closely
• Use gear as intended
• Avoid overcrowded areas when possible

Comply With Fire and Grilling Rules

Open flames can cause fast-moving fires, especially in dry conditions. Monroe County parks allow grilling only in specific areas, with equipment that meets fire safety standards. You must fully extinguish all coals or flames before leaving.

Parks near Irondequoit Bay have specific rules about portable grills, especially during dry seasons. In wooded areas, even small sparks can ignite leaf litter. Do not burn trash, paper, or unapproved materials.

Before lighting a grill:

• Confirm the area permits grilling
• Keep a bucket of water nearby
• Let coals cool completely before disposal

Carry Emergency Contacts and Know Access Points

Getting help quickly matters when something goes wrong. Whether it's a sprained ankle on a hiking trail or a child lost near a crowded beach, knowing who to call and how to reach them helps.

Monroe County Sheriff's Office patrols several larger parks, including Mendon Ponds and Ontario Beach. Keep emergency contacts saved on your phone and carry a small printed list in your bag. Know the nearest access road or trailhead in case you need to meet emergency personnel.

Plan ahead:

• Carry ID and a charged phone
• Share your plans with someone at home
• Learn where park entrances and exits are located

Report Unsafe Conditions Immediately

When you see something unsafe, speak up. That includes broken benches, blocked paths, aggressive animals, or suspicious activity. Park staff rely on public reports to keep areas maintained and secure.

Monroe County offers a mobile 311 system for non-emergency park concerns. You can also call the Parks Department directly to report damage or hazards.

Helpful steps:

• Take a photo of the issue if safe to do so
• Note the exact location (trail name, nearby feature, shelter number)
• Report the issue using the county’s official contact channels

Keep Monroe County Parks Safe for Everyone

Monroe County’s parks belong to all of us. When each person follows safety rules and respects public spaces, these parks stay clean, accessible, and enjoyable for generations to come. Whether you’re visiting from across New York State or live just down the road, your choices help keep these areas safe.

If unsafe conditions at a Monroe County park or public facility caused you or someone you care about to get hurt, Horn Wright, LLP, is here to help. Our experienced attorneys understand the local laws and can guide you through your next steps with care and clarity. 

Let us help you protect your rights while you focus on healing.