When it’s summer in the city, Wissahickon Valley Park is the place to be to enjoy long, lazy days and shade from the hot sun. Summer is at its peak and so is the number of visitors to the park. So we’re offering these reminders to make your park experience enjoyable and safe.

Share the trails. Our park is unique in its ability to accommodate hikers (often with dogs in tow), bikers, runners and equestrians all at the same time, so expect to share your space. Please be courteous and yield accordingly: Hikers and runners yield to bikers, and everyone yields to horses. (If you forget, look for the yield symbols posted throughout the park.)

Never exercise alone. Exercise with someone whenever possible. If going it alone, try to avoid using the park during off-peak times.

Leave the headphones home. They leave you vulnerable to physical injury and crime. Stay alert!

Vary your routine. If your schedule permits, go at different times, and start from different locations. If you always go to Valley Green in the morning, try starting at Bell’s Mill Road or Kitchen’s Lane in the afternoon.

Stay hydrated. Exercising in summer heat can be draining, so keep water with you (preferably in a reusable bottle). Bring snacks (but please dispose of any wrappers appropriately). And remember, grilling is permitted only in designated areas.

Keep your dog on a leash at all times. This isn’t our opinion — it’s the law in Philadelphia. Plus, unrestrained dogs can go after each other, spook horses and disturb nesting bird habitats.

No swimming allowed. Although it might be tempting to cool off with a swim on a hot summer day, the Wissahickon is not a city-designated swimming area and is unprotected. The creek presents a number of dangers, from uneven depths and potentially fast water (especially after a storm) to debris.

Look but don’t touch. That includes poison ivy! Please do not take plants or animals out of the park. Wear long sleeves and pants or insect repellent, as well as sturdy, protective shoes or boots.

While the Wissahickon is a remarkable place to get away from it all, it still is in a big city. Despite our best efforts, sometimes things happen, so please keep this safety information in mind:

• Parking lots are the major areas of crime in the park. Do not leave valuables (purses/wallets, cell phones, etc.) in plain sight in your car. Lock doors and carry keys with you. If your car is broken into, call 911 and stay until the police arrive.
• Trust your instincts. If you sense trouble because of a person or a place, leave. Report any suspicious activity by calling 911. FOW posts crime alerts as necessary, so visit our website, www.fow.org, frequently.
• Fortunately, whether a crime or an illness or injury occurs, help is readily available. Help Locators are listed on new signs posted throughout the park at major trail intersections.
• Report any crimes to the police via 911.
• Philadelphia Park rangers patrol the Wissahickon all summer long to increase safety and enforce park regulations. You can reach them at 215-685-2172. You can also report any problems to FOW Trail Ambassadors.
• For non-emergency issues, you can text WISS to 267-966-2207.

Thank you for enjoying the Wissahickon as much as we do. Have a wonderful, safe summer!