Park Ranger Resources
Emergencies: Call 911
Non-emergencies: Call our main office at 330-297-7728
Portage Park District is a great place to enjoy nature and recreation. When visiting Portage Park District parks, remember to practice the same personal safety routines you would anywhere else.
If faced with an emergency, call 911. If you are unsure of the situation, always call 911. Other concerns can be reported to our main office at 330-297-7728.
If you are with a Park District employee, notify them of your situation.
To submit a concern or report an issue, click the report button below
TRAIL HAZARDS AND DAMAGE To report non-emergency safety hazards, or damaged trails and facilities, use this form for our operations department.
Safety Tips when Hiking, Biking, Walking, or Jogging:
- Stay on the trails. Going off trail is harmful to the natural habitat and is not safe.
- Be prepared by bringing and drinking enough water to stay hydrated.
- Know your limits.
- Have a way to communicate in case of emergency, by bringing your cell phone.
- Spray for mosquitoes and check for ticks.
- Dogs are some of the best trail companions but must be on a leash. Please be respectful of other park visitors and property by picking up pet feces and disposing of it properly.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Don't wear headphones. Being able to hear your surroundings will allow you to notice someone you would not notice otherwise.
- When alone, avoid secluded areas where there are places to hide. Vary the route you take. Do not take the same route every day.
- Wear bright-colored clothing so that you can easily be seen.
- Stay to the right on trails and pass to the left.
- Always let someone know when you begin, the route you will be taking, and when you plan to return.
- Cyclists should wear helmets, ride in a single file line at a reasonable and prudent speed, and sound a warning when passing others.
Secure your Vehicle and Valuables
Vehicle break-ins are crimes of opportunity, and parking lots, including those in local parks, are prime locations for these crimes.
- Look Doors and Windows - make sure all doors and windows are locked and up, including the sunroof.
- Secure Valuables - Place valuables in the trunk of your car and out of plain view before you arrive at your destination. You may believe that leaving these items on the floorboard or under the seat and covering them will keep them safe, but it broadcasts that something of value may be concealed in the car.
- Be Aware - Be aware of your surroundings. Don't broadcast your movements when hiding valuables. Someone may be watching as you put valuables under your seat. Instead, take it with you, or leave it at home.
- Parking - Park in an area visible to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Park near other vehicles where people are coming and going.
Report Suspicious Activity
- If you see something suspicious, trust your instincts and report it.
Did you know?
- A violation of park rules is a crime, and the violator is subject to a fine.
- Parks are open from dawn to dusk.
- Dogs must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
- Alcohol, other intoxicants, and illegal substances are prohibited.
- Horses and bicycles are only permitted in designated areas.
- Removal or disturbance of vegetation and hunting or harming wild animals is prohibited.
- Fishing is prohibited except in specially designated areas and is subject to the statutes of the State of Ohio and restrictions set by the Director.
- No person shall operate a motor vehicle except for motorized wheelchairs on any portion of park property except the drives and roadways clearly marked for such purpose.