Summer days are here and although the rains seem to have dampened our visits to parks and outdoor spaces, they will bring with them lush lawns, shady trees and ample space to picnic in your parks, nature reserves and the Joburg Zoo. Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) the entity responsible for designated open spaces, public parks, street trees, nature reserves and the Johannesburg Zoo, is appealing to park users to be extra vigilant when visiting outdoor spaces.

Safety in these facilities is a collective effort and although JCPZ takes safety in parks seriously, we cannot guarantee complete safety. Here are a few tips for park visitors.

DO

Adhere to signage in parks and always stay alert of your surroundings

Walk in groups and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Keep handbags, wallets, cellphones, and jewelry secure

Ensure that you do not leave items in your car in view of passersby after locking

Be vigilant when talking on your cellphone

Adhere to park by-laws by respecting your surroundings

DON’T

Feed the animals. Litter, plastics, etc. are a serious health hazard to the animals as well as water bodies Break plants, trees and park equipment.

Braai areas are available at most parks.

Avoid starting fires and/or disposing of hot ash on grass or tree barks Take your dog off its leash, consider the safety of other park users Park users are not permitted to consume alcohol, use illegal substances, or contravene the by-laws, people caught drinking in public spaces will be arrested on the spot.

For more information on JCPZ bylaws, please visit www.jhbcityparksandzoo.com.

Park users can report illegal activities to 08600 10111 or contact the City of Joburg’s contact centre on 011 375 5555 joburgconnect@joburg.org.za.

JCPZ’s Park Rangers do regular patrols of parks and are assisted by law enforcements like the Johannesburg Metro Police Department and the police.

Our popular parks such as Zoo Lake, Thokoza Park, the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens in Emmarentia and conservation areas such as the Joburg Zoo; The Wilds; Northcliff Eco-Park and the Klipriversberg Nature reserve experience an increase in numbers during this time of the year.

Joburg residents flock to these facilities for a day in the outdoors.

There are over 2 000 parks and approximately 10 000 hectares of green nature experiences to choose from.

For more parks and other outdoor spaces in your city, visit our website on www.jhbcityparksandzoo.com

13/12/2022