Our park rangers have perhaps the most visible role in Summit Metro Parks. Because they interact with many visitors while patrolling the park district (mostly on foot) our rangers witness the many incredible moments that happen in our parks every day.
“The best part of my job is being able to help people,” said Chris Lloyd, a Summit Metro Parks ranger. “As rangers, we pursued a career in public safety because of the desire to help people. Working outdoors is a bonus.”
Chris offered seven safety tips to keep in mind when visiting Summit Metro Parks:
- Park rangers are here to help. Don’t be afraid to approach them with questions or concerns. Uniforms consist of black pants and tan shirts. Authorized jackets and sweaters are also black, while headgear consists of black campaign-style hats and black ball caps with the ranger insignia.
- Don’t take anything from the parks. Let nature be nature.
- Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and avoiding interference. Rangers often receive reports of “orphaned” animals, but in most cases, the parent is simply nearby gathering food.
- Take care of park facilities to ensure everyone can enjoy them. Preventable damage disrupts the experience for others.
- For your safety and the preservation of natural resources, avoid going off-trail and into areas that are blocked off.
- Keep valuables at home or move them out of plain view in your car before you arrive at a park. Be sure to lock your vehicle and take your keys with you, too.
- Save important numbers in your phone before you arrive:
- For non-emergencies during weekdays, call Administrative Offices at 330-867-5511.
- To reach park rangers for non-emergencies after hours, on the weekends or during holidays, call 330-475-0029.
- For emergencies at any time, call 911. If you are unable to call, emergencies in Summit County can be texted to 911.
And as a bonus for our pet-loving pals: Remember to keep pets on leashes no longer than eight feet. Pets must be under the owner’s control at all times for the safety of you and your pet, as well as other park visitors.
Park safety involves everyone doing their part to make it the best experience possible.
What is a park ranger?
Park rangers are commissioned peace officers through the State of Ohio who enforce the park district’s rules, regulations and other applicable laws to protect resources and ensure visitors have a safe and enjoyable park experience. Every year, they complete hours of training to maintain their commissioned status in order to maintain full authority to enforce the law.
Rangers also educate and provide information, protect lives and property, and maintain good order while on duty year-round. And they’re an important part of outreach. They interact with the public at special events, school programs, community events and more.
Some park rangers have backgrounds typical of law enforcement, such as a criminal justice degree or military experience. Others have specialized knowledge, such as natural resources and wildlife degrees.
Interested in pursuing a career as a park ranger?
We offer a Ranger Explorer Program for those ages 16 to 20 who have an interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement – especially in becoming a park ranger. Participants attend monthly meetings to learn about a variety of topics, such as hunting and fishing laws, search and rescue, and traffic stops. They also have the opportunity to help during special events in the park district.
Want to join Summit Metro Parks as a park ranger? View employment opportunities.
Stay safe and help us keep our parks safe
As we mentioned before, we all must do our part to make sure our parks are safe. Our park rangers patrol all our parks and conservation areas year-round. So, the next time you see one of them, be sure to say hello and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.