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Your safety is important while visiting Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park. A little preparation and awareness can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
General Park Safety
Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park includes the historic Monroe Elementary School and its surrounding grounds in Topeka, Kansas. Visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and follow posted signs and directions from park staff.
Weather: Kansas weather can change quickly. Summers may be hot and humid, and thunderstorms and severe weather can occur. During colder months, snow, ice, and freezing temperatures may create slippery conditions on sidewalks, parking areas, and entrances. Check local weather conditions before your visit and dress appropriately.
Heat and Hydration: During hot weather, drink plenty of water and limit prolonged exposure to extreme heat. Never leave children, pets, or vulnerable individuals unattended in a parked vehicle.
Severe Weather: The park conducts severe-weather preparedness activities and may provide instructions to visitors when hazardous weather threatens. Follow all directions from park staff and move to designated shelter areas when instructed. The park conducts severe-weather drills from March through October and fire drills throughout the year, so visitors may occasionally be asked to participate in a safety drill.
Walking Surfaces: Use designated sidewalks, entrances, and accessible routes whenever possible. Watch for uneven pavement, curbs, wet surfaces, snow, or ice that may create tripping or slipping hazards.
Parking and Street Safety: Use designated parking areas and exercise caution when crossing streets or moving between the parking area and park facilities. Be alert for vehicles, bicycles, and other traffic.
Historic Resources: Monroe Elementary School and other park features are protected historic resources. Please help preserve them by following posted instructions and avoiding actions that could damage historic materials, exhibits, furnishings, or structures.
Fire and Emergency Procedures: In the event of a fire, alarm, evacuation, or other emergency, remain calm and follow instructions from park staff. Do not block exits, stairways, or emergency access routes.
Personal Belongings: Keep personal belongings with you and do not leave items unattended. The park's current Superintendent's Compendium prohibits unattended property on park grounds for security, health, and safety reasons.
Firearms
Visitors are responsible for knowing and complying with all applicable federal, state, and local firearm laws. Federal law prohibits firearms inside certain federal facilities, including National Park Service buildings where signs are posted at public entrances. The park's current visitor information specifically notes that firearms are prohibited, whether concealed or openly carried, inside federal facilities at the site.
Protect Yourself and the Park
Please report unsafe conditions, suspicious behavior, vandalism, or damage to park resources to a park ranger or other staff member. For emergencies requiring police, fire, or medical assistance, dial 9-1-1.
For additional questions before your visit, contact Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park at 785-354-4273.
National Park Service Tip Line
To report suspicious activity, vandalism, resource damage, or other incidents in a National Park Service area:
CALL: 888-653-0009 ONLINE: go.nps.gov/SubmitATip (attachments OK up to 7MB) EMERGENCY: Dial 9-1-1
For immediate threats to life, health, or safety, always call 9-1-1.
