By Chief Ranger Jim Sivak
The top priority of Lake Metroparks is to provide the citizens of Lake County and the broader region with clean, safe and outstanding parks. Lake Metroparks is an awesome place to enjoy nature and recreation! Our Ranger Department takes immense pride in the role we play regarding the overall safe environment you find when entering Lake Metroparks properties. When visiting Lake Metroparks, please remember to practice the same personal safety routines you would in any other public place or at home.
When visitors arrive in the parks, they are often eager to exit their vehicles and enjoy the outdoors whether it’s to take their dog for a walk, go for a run, get the kids on the playground or simply take a peaceful stroll to relax. Understandably, everyone wants to get out of the car and start their activities.
However, this desire to move quickly can cause us to forget basic safety protocol involving our vehicles and their contents. Simple things we regularly do at the mall, the grocery store or the driveway at home are overlooked. We may forget to roll up a window, fail to lock the car doors or leave valuables in plain view all because we are focused on enjoying the park.
On occasion, there are bad actors in our parks looking for easy prey. These criminals randomly walk through or monitor parking lots waiting for an easy opportunity to enter your vehicle and steal your possessions.
You can help us reverse this trend by following these simple steps:
Although vehicle break-ins are concerning, this and other crimes rarely occur in Lake Metroparks. You can be certain your visit to Lake Metroparks will continue to be a safe and enjoyable experience. I look forward to seeing you out in the parks!
While in the parks, for non-emergency help, contact Ranger Dispatch: 440-354-3434.