As temperatures continue to climb this summer, the City of Sacramento is inviting residents to stay cool, stay active, and enjoy everything the City’s parks and aquatic facilities have to offer. 

To help families beat the heat, Mayor Kevin McCarty is sponsoring free Family Nights at neighborhood pools across Sacramento in partnership with the City’s Department of Youth, Parks, and Community Enrichment (YPCE).

Throughout this week, residents can enjoy free admission at participating pools from 3-7 p.m., making it easy for families to cool off, spend quality time together, and experience some of Sacramento’s best community amenities. 

Free Family Night Schedule 

All events take place from 3-7 p.m.

Tuesday, July 14 

• Johnston Pool
• McClatchy Pool 

Wednesday, July 15 

• Doyle Pool 

Thursday, July 16 

• Mangan Pool 

Friday, July 17 

• Sim Pool
• Cabrillo Pool 
• Southside Pool 

Free Family Nights are just one of the many ways Sacramento residents can beat the summer heat. Families can also enjoy the City’s spray parks, splash pads, and free wading pools, offering fun and accessible ways for children to cool off throughout the season.

Aquatics programming includes swim lessons, recreational swimming, lap swimming, swim teams and water fitness classes. Youth Program Scholarship Funds are available to help qualifying families participate in aquatics programs at no cost.

Residents can also cool off at City spray parks and splash pads, which operate until Oct. 1.

For pool schedules, swim lesson registration and additional aquatics information, visit cityofsacramento.gov/Aquatics.

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July is Parks and Recreation Month, and Sacramento County Regional Parks is inviting residents to experience a summer staycation close to home!

From scenic trails and river access to family picnic areas, wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation, Sacramento County Regional Parks offers countless opportunities to explore, experience and enjoy nature without leaving the region.

Whether you’re biking along the American River Parkway, paddling local waterways, fishing, hiking or simply relaxing under the shade of a tree, Regional Parks provides affordable outdoor adventures for visitors of all ages.

Introducing the Staycation Parks Pass

To celebrate Parks and Recreation Month, Sacramento County Regional Parks is launching a Staycation Parks Pass for $25.

The pass is valid now through Sept. 30 and provides a convenient way to enjoy Sacramento County Regional Parks all summer long. Visitors who purchase a Staycation Parks Pass will also receive complimentary swag items while supplies last.

Swag items may include a cooling towel, drawstring backpack, beach ball, flying disc, reusable cup and other giveaways that support the County’s ongoing Life Looks Good on You river safety campaign.

Staycation Parks Passes can be purchased at the Sacramento County Regional Parks administrative office:

10361 Rockingham Drive, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95827

Office hours are:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Wednesday: Noon to 4 p.m.

Parks Improve Quality of Life

Research consistently shows that parks support healthier communities by encouraging physical activity, reducing stress and providing spaces where families and neighbors can connect. Parks also contribute to local economies, improve air quality and help people experience the natural beauty of Sacramento County.

This July, Regional Parks encourages everyone to discover a new favorite park, revisit a familiar trail or spend time outdoors with family and friends.

Explore. Experience. Enjoy.

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Sacramento County Public Health (SCPH) and the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District have recorded the first human case of West Nile virus in Sacramento County this year. The California Department of Public Health, as of June 26, has only reported one other human case, making this the second human case statewide.  

The resident is a female in her 60s and is recovering. West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. While approximately 80 percent of people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, about one in five may experience a mild illness that can include fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. In rare cases, the virus can affect the nervous system and lead to serious neurological disease.

“This first human case this season is an important reminder that West Nile virus is actively circulating in our community,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Phuong Luu. “While most people who become infected will not develop serious illness, some people, especially older adults and those with a compromised immune system can experience severe complications. The best protection is to prevent mosquito bites by always wearing an effective mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants and eliminating standing water around your home.”

West Nile virus activity has increased significantly in recent weeks, with positive mosquito samples and infected dead birds found in multiple areas throughout Sacramento County.

“This human case confirms that West Nile virus is active and the risk to residents is increasing,” said Gary Goodman, Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District Manager. “This comes at a time when residents will be enjoying the outdoor activities for the 4th of July holiday and it’s important for residents to stay protected because all it takes is one bite from an infected mosquito to get the virus.”

The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District will continue intensive surveillance throughout Sacramento County by trapping and testing mosquitoes, monitoring reports of dead birds, treating mosquito breeding sources, and conducting targeted adult mosquito control treatments when surveillance indicates an elevated risk of disease transmission.

2026 West Nile virus activity update for Sacramento County: 1 human, 31 dead birds and 20 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.

Practice the District D’s of Mosquito Prevention:

• DRAIN standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
• DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outdoors.
• DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outside.
• DEFEND yourself by using an effective insect repellent. Make sure to follow label directions!
• DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition.
• DISTRICT personnel are also available to address any mosquito problems. Call them at 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net

Media contacts:

• Sacramento County Public Health:
  • Casey Camacho, camachoc@saccounty.gov, (916) 862-2319
• Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District:
  • Luz Maria Robles, lrobles@fightthebite.net, (916) 416-6337

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Animals, Pets, Insects, Agriculture

For many people, the Fourth of July is a time to celebrate with family, friends and fireworks. For pets, it’s often one of the scariest nights of the year.

Every year, animal shelters across the country see a sharp increase in lost pets around the Fourth of July as frightened dogs and cats panic at the sound of fireworks, escape yards, slip out open doors or bolt from leashes. The good news? A few simple steps can help keep your pets safe at home.

Fourth of July Pet Safety Tips

• Keep pets indoors. Even pets that are usually comfortable outside can become startled by fireworks. Bring them inside before celebrations begin and keep them there for the evening.
• Create a safe, quiet space. Set up a comfortable room with their favorite bed, blankets, toys and water. Closing windows, curtains and playing calming music or the TV can help drown out loud noises.
• Double-check identification. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with current ID tags. If they’re microchipped, verify that your contact information is up to date. A microchip is one of the best ways to help your pet find their way home.
• Talk to your veterinarian. If your pet becomes anxious during fireworks, talk to your veterinarian before the holiday about medications or other options that can help reduce stress and keep them calm during the celebrations.
• Exercise early. Take dogs for a walk earlier in the day before fireworks begin. Keep them on a secure leash, even if they’re usually reliable off-leash.
• Leave them home. Fireworks shows, neighborhood parties and crowded events are not pet-friendly. The safest place for your pet is inside your home.
• Watch the doors. Guests coming and going can create opportunities for pets to slip outside. Remind visitors to keep doors and gates closed.
• Never leave pets in the yard during fireworks. Even fenced yards aren’t escape-proof when a frightened pet is trying to get away.

Waived Redemption Fees

To help reunite lost pets with their families as quickly as possible, Sacramento County’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter is waiving owner redemption fees from June 27 through July 11, 2026.

The fee waiver applies to all redeemable animals except those involved in ongoing investigations or animals that have been confiscated or placed under quarantine.

If your pet goes missing, don’t wait. Visit the shelter as soon as possible and check our lost pet listings daily. Many lost pets are found within the first few days after the holiday.

Looking for Your Lost Pet?

Visit Bradshaw Animal Shelter at 3839 Bradshaw Road during public hours:

• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday: Noon–5 p.m.
• Wednesday: Noon–6 p.m.
• Closed Mondays and County holidays

You can also view lost and found pets online before heading to the shelter.

A little preparation can make all the difference. By planning ahead and keeping pets safely indoors, we can help ensure this Fourth of July ends with more happy reunions, and fewer frightened pets spending the holiday away from home.

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The post Keep Your Pets Safe This Fourth of July: Tips to Prevent Lost Pets first appeared on SacramentoHelp.info.

County Governance, Operations, Policy

As temperatures rise and families look for ways to stay cool, Sacramento County reminds parents and caregivers that water safety should be a top priority throughout the summer months. Drowning is one of the leading causes of injury-related death for children, but many incidents can be prevented through awareness, preparation and active supervision.

Whether spending time at a swimming pool, lake, river, water park or even at home, it’s important to take steps to stay safe. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly. An adult should always be supervising children when they are in or near water.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to talk with children and teens about water safety this summer. These conversations should include the importance of following safety rules, swimming with a buddy and listening to lifeguards or supervising adults.

What you can do before spending a day on the water:

Parents should take a few minutes to make sure they are prepared. Children under 13 in Sacramento County must wear properly fitted life jackets when boating or spending time in lakes, rivers or other open water. While floatation devices and water toys can be fun, they should never replace close adult supervision or a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

How you can start the conversation with your kids:

It’s also important to talk with children about what to do around water. Remind them to stay where adults can see them, avoid rough play near pools or waterways, and never enter the water without permission. Having these conversations before a family outing can help children make safer choices when they are excited and distracted by summer activities.

Drownings can happen in unexpected places:

Water safety discussions should not be limited to pools, lake rivers and oceans. Drownings can happen inside the home as well. Bathtubs, buckets, large containers and other sources of standing water can pose serious risks to young children. Babies can drown in as little as one inch of water. Parents and caregivers should never leave infants or young children unattended around water, even for a moment.

To help keep children safe, parents and caregivers should:

• Always provide close, undistracted supervision when children are in or near water.
• Designate a responsible adult as a “water watcher” during gatherings and swimming activities.
• Ensure pools and spas are secured with proper fencing and self-latching gates.
• Use properly fitted life jackets when boating or recreating near open water.
• Enroll children in age-appropriate swim lessons when possible.
• Learn CPR and know how to respond in a water emergency.
• Talk with children regularly about water safety rules and expectations.
• Empty buckets, kiddie pools and other containers after use and store them safely.

When visiting Sacramento County Parks:

Sacramento County Regional Parks reminds residents to use extra caution when visiting local waterways. Rivers can have strong currents, cold water temperatures and hidden hazards that make them dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Parents should talk with children about these risks and make sure they stay in approved recreation areas. Remember: County ordinance requires that all children under 13 wear an approved life jacket before entering lakes and rivers. Life jackets are also stationed in several areas along the river.

As families enjoy the summer season, a few simple precautions and conversations can go a long way toward preventing accidents and keeping children safe while they have fun in and around the water.

Check out these additional water safety resources:

• Regional Parks river safety tips
• Regional Parks Kids Don’t Float water safety tips
• American Red Cross swim lessons and water safety classes

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Sacramento County Public Health (SCPH) and the Sacramento County Environmental Management Department (EMD) are urging residents to follow safe food handling practices as summer temperatures, activities and subsequent foodborne illnesses are on the rise.

Food Safety Best Practices:

• Thoroughly cook all meats, especially poultry. Poultry should be cooked to reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F. If you are served undercooked poultry in a restaurant, send it back for further cooking.
• Wash hands before preparing food and immediately after handling any raw poultry or meat.
• Avoid cross-contamination by carefully cleaning all cutting boards, countertops and utensils with soap and hot water after preparing raw poultry or meat and prevent juices from raw meats from dripping on other foods.
• Make sure that other foods, such as fruits or vegetables, do not come into contact with cutting boards or knives that have been used with raw poultry or meat.
• Always refrigerate meat products. Never leave raw meat at room temperature.
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses and untreated (not chlorinated or boiled) surface or stream water.
• Wash hands well with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing diapers or handling pets, including animals at petting zoos. Make sure children wash their hands well after going to the bathroom or handling pets.

This reminder follows a recent increase in Campylobacter infections in Sacramento County. Campylobacter is one of the most common bacterial causes of foodborne illness in the United States. Recent monitoring data shows Campylobacter cases were 1.3 times higher than the previous month and 1.2 times higher than the three-year average.

Campylobacter infections can result from eating undercooked poultry, consuming unpasteurized dairy products, drinking contaminated water or allowing raw meat and poultry juices to contaminate ready-to-eat foods. Symptoms often include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting.

“Summer is a time for gathering with family and friends, whether that’s around a backyard grill, at a picnic in the park or on a camping trip,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Phuong Luu. “Recent increases in Campylobacter infections serve as a reminder that food safety matters. No one wants a celebration to end with a trip to the doctor. A few simple food safety steps can help prevent illness and keep summer memories focused on the people and moments that matter most.”

SCPH monitors disease trends, investigates outbreaks and works to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. EMD protects public health through food safety inspections, environmental health programs and education for food facilities and residents. Both departments work together to identify emerging public health concerns and provide residents with information to prevent illness before it occurs.

“Food safety starts long before the first bite,” said Jennea Monasterio, Director of the Sacramento County Environmental Management Department. “Keeping food at safe temperatures and preventing cross-contamination are small steps that can prevent illness and help people enjoy their summer season.”

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Sacramento County and Placer County public health officials announced today that the regional measles outbreak has officially ended. The determination is based on the date of the last case’s symptom onset and two full incubation periods, with no new cases identified in over 42 days. All individuals who became ill during the outbreak have fully recovered.

Health officials with the two counties credited quick community response, robust immunization coverage and cooperation with isolation and quarantine guidance as key factors in ending the outbreak.

“This outbreak may be over, but the conditions that allowed it to occur have not disappeared,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Phuong Luu. “Containing the spread required extensive coordination among public health agencies, healthcare providers, schools, community partners and affected families. The lesson from this outbreak is not that measles is harmless. The lesson is that vaccines work, community immunity works and maintaining high vaccination coverage remains essential to protecting those at risk.”

“Community members really stepped up,” said  Placer County Health Officer and Director of Health and Human Services Dr. Rob Oldham. “The organizations associated with exposures worked with us to help educate people in their networks, and thankfully we were able to break the chain of transmission to bring this outbreak to a close.”

The outbreak started with an unvaccinated traveler returning to the area from South Carolina, where a much larger outbreak was underway. South Carolina’s outbreak ended in late April, yet measles outbreaks are ongoing in other states. Residents are encouraged to confirm their vaccination status, particularly before traveling to other states or countries, or before visiting crowded destinations such as airports, large events or theme parks.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine offers the best protection against measles. It is 93% effective with a single dose and 97% effective with two doses.

Public health officials encourage residents to verify they and their family members are protected against measles by reviewing their vaccination records and speaking with a healthcare provider. Residents who are uninsured or on Medi-Cal and need assistance with checking their status or accessing vaccinations can refer to the Sacramento County Immunization Assistance Program for resources.

Sacramento and Placer Counties will stop posting weekly measles case count updates to their respective Public Health websites at this time.

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Looking for a fun way to get active, spend time outdoors and make memories with your family? Sacramento County residents will have plenty of opportunities to do just that during Family Health & Fitness Day on Saturday, June 13.

Across the county, community organizations, nonprofits and Regional Parks partners are hosting activities that encourage healthy living, outdoor recreation, learning and exploration. From yoga and nature walks to farm animals, volunteer projects and family-friendly fitness activities, there is something for every age and interest.

“Family Health & Fitness Day is a great opportunity to discover all the ways our parks, trails and open spaces support healthy and active lifestyles,” said Regional Parks Director, Liz Bellas. “Whether you’re exploring nature, volunteering, trying a new activity or simply spending time outdoors with family and friends, we hope these events inspire people to get outside and enjoy the incredible recreational opportunities available throughout Sacramento County.”

Many events are free, while others require registration or a small participation fee. Residents are encouraged to review event details before attending.

Family Health & Fitness Day Events

American River Parkway

Yoga and Nature Walk at Sailor Bar
Sailor Bar Access | 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Free event, RSVP required at ProtectSailorBar@yahoo.com
Hosted by Friends of Sailor Bar and Sacramento County Regional Parks

Knit in Public Day
River Bend Park | 10 a.m. – Noon
Free event with pre-registration
Hosted by the American River Parkway Foundation and Broad Room

An Introduction to Nature Journaling
Effie Yeaw Nature Center | 9 a.m. – Noon
All ages | $20 registration fee, free for ARNHA members
Hosted by the American River Natural History Association

Nature of Reading
Effie Yeaw Nature Center | 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Ages 5–8 | $15 registration fee, $10 for ARNHA members
Hosted by the American River Natural History Association

Yoga on the Farm
American River Ranch | 8:30 a.m.
Suitable for all levels | $15 registration fee
Hosted by Soil Born Farms

Garden Like a Farmer Series
American River Ranch | 10 a.m.
Adults | $30 registration fee
Hosted by Soil Born Farms

Trail Accessibility Equipment Demonstration
William B Pond Park | 9 a.m. – Noon
Free event
Hosted by McIlwain Mobility and The Lionheart Community

Camp Pollock Volunteer Service Day
Camp Pollock | 8 a.m. – Noon
Free event, pre-registration required
Hosted by Sacramento Valley Conservancy

Fun in the Sun – Float on the River
Sunrise Access and Sailor Bar Access
Raft reservations required; fees vary
Hosted by American River Raft Rentals

Dry Creek Parkway

Free Family Fun at Cherry Island Golf Course
9 a.m. – Noon
Free event for all ages
Hosted by CourseCo and Cherry Island Golf Course

Night of the Revving Dead Car Show at the Dry Creek Ranch House
Begins at Noon
Free admission | $5 parking
Hosted by Alley Cats Car Club and the Rio Linda Elverta Historical Society

Meet the Horses and Farm Animals at Gibson Ranch Regional Park
9 a.m. – Noon
Free event for all ages
Hosted by Gibson Horse Boarders and Sacramento County Regional Parks

Youth Sports and Games
9 a.m. – Noon
Hosted by the Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Parks District

Community Outreach and Input: Future Grant Projects at Gibson Ranch and Dry Creek Parkway
9 a.m. – Noon
Hosted by Sacramento County Regional Parks

Cosumnes River Preserve

Trek the Trails 5K Fun Run and Walk
9 a.m. – Noon
Free event, pre-registration required
Hosted by Sacramento County Regional Parks and Cosumnes River Preserve

Family Health & Fitness Day is a national celebration dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles through physical activity, outdoor recreation and family engagement. Sacramento County’s parks, trails, preserves and recreational facilities provide opportunities for residents to stay active and connect with nature all year.

Regional Parks has created a merch shop so residents can remember Family Health and Fitness Day year-round. Visit the online store to secure yours!

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Sacramento County is launching a newly updated 311 Connect Mobile Application – now featuring a modern design, improved usability and enhanced security to deliver a smoother, more intuitive experience for our community.

What’s New in the Mobile App

Everything you count on from 311 is still at your fingertips, now with the following key improvements:

Modernized User Interface

• A refreshed appearance with an updated color palette and graphic style
• Redesigned navigation to help you find what you need faster
• New Sacramento County branding throughout the app

Unified Account Experience

• App authentication now fully matches the 311 Connect web portal
• Your Sacramento Countywide user profile powers both the app and website

New Service Request Type

• Report Illegal Fireworks directly through the app

What To Expect

• If you already have the 311 Connect Mobile Application installed, please update the app manually in the App Store or Google Play.
• When signing in for the first time after updating the app, you will be prompted to authenticate using your Sacramento Countywide profile.
• Your existing mobile app service request history will automatically transfer to the new app, allowing residents to pick up right where they left off.

Learn more about 311 Connect, your link to County Services, as well as Cami, the new digital assistant!

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Become a Resource Family for Local Foster Children

Do you want to make a difference in the life of a child? Foster care is the out of home care of a minor who is a dependent of the juvenile dependency court. Some children require temporary out of home care due to parental neglect, abuse or exploitation. Foster parents, now known as “resource families,” provide love, parental care, guidance and stability to children until they can be returned to their parents or move to a permanent home through adoption or guardianship.
 
There is an ongoing need to find and maintain resource families who can support children and their families in their area. While homes are needed for all types of children, family homes for sibling sets, as well as teenagers and children with medical needs, are also needed. The Sacramento County Resource Family Approval (RFA) program offers training, support, and guidance to resource families.

The Resource Family Approval Program

• Recruits prospective resource families for temporary and permanent placement
• Provides RFA Scheduled Orientation
• Provides initial training to prospective families and annual training for approved families
• Evaluates potential resource family homes to ensure each meets space and safety requirements
• Interviews and assesses qualifications of prospective resource families
• Issues and updates resource family approvals
• Conducts annual inspections and complaint investigations when required
• Provides ongoing RFA training

We Are Looking for People Who Can

• Help children in a temporary resource family home feel that they have a “home of their own”
• Help foster youth maintain and improve relationships with others, including parents
• Assist children with adjustment in school, community and new home environment
• Understand and respect the importance of the foster youths’ bond with their natural family
• Share and maintain their own family while including a foster youth into the family environment
• Maintain the foster youths’ cultural, ethnic and religious preference 

To Qualify, Applicants Must

• Reside in the County of Sacramento
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be in good health
• Each adult in the home must be willing to submit to a background check
• Have adequate bedroom space to accommodate all family members, including foster youth
• Have a home which passes a safety inspection
• Have sufficient income to meet current expenses
• Be willing to complete required training
• Complete application packet online​

​Level of Care Protocol (LOCP) Information

• Resource Parents Report Tool Activities in Support of Child
• CS 80 LOC Redetermination Request
• ​​LOCP Slides
• LOCP Training for Resource Parents​

Other Information

• RFA Scheduled Orientation
• Steps to Becoming a Resource Parent
• ​Contact Me – Interest in Becoming a Resource Parent​
• ​Support and Assistance​
• Ongoing Resource Family Training​​
• Read​y to complete the application packet​
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Sacramento Heart Gallery
• Guiding Foster Kids to Success

Contact Information

CPS Resource Family Approval
3701 Branch Center Road
Sacramento, CA 95827
Telephone: (916) 875-5543

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