Weather Cancellation Guidelines

The Washington Park District uses the following guidelines to determine whether to cancel or modify activities due to weather conditions. While we typically do not cancel activities based on forecasts alone, we closely monitor actual weather and facility conditions. Activities may be canceled at any time at the discretion of the Executive Director. Ultimately, participants and their parents are responsible for deciding whether to attend an activity based on the weather.

All cancellations will be posted on the Washington Park District Facebook page and on the program line at 309-366-2413.

Rain

Outdoor activities often continue as scheduled during rain. However, athletic fields and parks may be closed to prevent damage to the playing surfaces and to ensure the safety of participants. Groups using Park District facilities are expected to help protect both participants and fields during inclement weather. Remember, just one practice or game can severely damage a field that isn’t ready for play.

The Washington Park District reserves the right to cancel or suspend outdoor facility or field use whenever weather or turf conditions could potentially cause damage or injury.

Groups and programs using Park District facilities are responsible for canceling games or practices onsite if "poor or unsafe field conditions" exist. These conditions include:

1. Presence of lightning or thunder
2. Standing water in an area of at least 3 feet in diameter on the field
3. Water surfacing or bubbling up when walking on turf
4. Muddy fields that cause unstable footing (players slipping and sliding)
5. Sharp or dangerous objects on the field (e.g., broken glass, large rocks, broken base pegs, holes)
6. Unsecured goals
7. Broken athletic equipment

Please note the following:

• Park District personnel or athletic officials may cancel or delay outdoor activities if conditions warrant.
• In the absence of an athletic official, instructors or head coaches will decide whether to cancel or modify activities.

Lightning & Thunder

Activities must be suspended, and park users should take shelter at the first sign of lightning or thunder. Activities should not resume until at least 30 minutes after the last lightning flash or sound of thunder.

Hot Temperatures

Outdoor activities may be modified due to hot temperatures. Participants should:

• Limit outdoor activity, especially during the hottest part of the day.
• Wear and reapply sunscreen as indicated on the package. (Please note: Park District employees cannot apply sunscreen for participants.)
• Start activities slowly and gradually increase the pace.
• Drink more water than usual and avoid waiting until thirsty to drink. Muscle cramping may be an early sign of heat-related illness.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

The following guidelines will be used to modify activities based on the heat index:

• Heat Index of 90 to 98 degrees: Extra precautions, such as hydrating and taking frequent breaks, are encouraged. Program and camp activities may be modified to reduce strenuous activities and include more breaks.
• Heat Index of 99 to 103 degrees: Similar precautions as above. Non-aquatic field trips may be modified or canceled. Programs and camps may be moved indoors if possible. Athletic practices and games should be shortened.
• Heat Index above 103 degrees: Programs and camps will be moved indoors if possible. Non-aquatic field trips and all other outdoor activities may be canceled.

Air Quality

The Washington Park District monitors the Air Quality Index to assess potential impacts on programming. Programs may be modified or canceled when air quality reaches dangerous levels, as determined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Winter Weather

Winter weather, including snow, ice, and cold temperatures, can lead to program cancellations or facility closures. The following guidelines help determine these actions:

• Programs & Facilities: The cancellation of programs or closure of facilities depends on weather conditions and accessibility. We monitor these factors to decide whether programs will proceed or facilities will remain open.
• Early Childhood Programs: If District 50, 51, 52, or St. Patrick’s closes due to winter weather, all Washington Park District early childhood programs will also be canceled for the day.
• Cold Temperatures: Outdoor activities may be modified or canceled due to cold temperatures. Participants should dress appropriately, including wearing:
  • A hat
  • A scarf or knit mask to cover face and mouth
  • Snug sleeves at the wrist
  • Mittens (warmer than gloves)
  • Water-resistant coat and boots
  • Several layers of loose-fitting clothing
• School Closings:If schools are cancelled, then all daytime programming is canceled until 3 pm.  Evening programing decision will be made at 2 pm.
  • We aim to open DayQuests on school snow cancellation days.  Please check our Facebook page for more information.  If you are a current REACH customer for that month these sessions are FREE.  If you are not signed up for REACH in the current month, then the cost is $32 for residents and $37 for non-residents.

The following wind chill guidelines will be used to modify activities:

• Wind Chill of 15 to 30 degrees: Programs may be shortened, and participants should dress accordingly.
• Wind Chill of 0 to 14 degrees: Similar to the above, with more significant modifications to activities. Programs may be moved indoors if possible.
• Wind Chill below 0 degrees: Programs will be moved indoors if possible, and all other outdoor activities may be canceled.

These are guidelines, and participants and their parents have the final say on whether to attend based on weather conditions.

Snow Clearing Scope

The Washington Park District strives to keep parks and facilities accessible during the winter, although we cannot clear all sidewalks or parking lots. Our snow-clearing priorities include:

• Sidewalks near schools where Park District programs are held
• Sidewalks adjacent to Park District facilities that are open for use
• Select trails/paths within parks (clearing of trails occurs after primary routes are completed)

With over 11 miles of right-of-way walks under our jurisdiction, we focus on ensuring at least one clear path in areas where traversable options are limited.

Your safety and enjoyment is our priority. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!