Having a Safe Visit
Ottawa County Parks are generally safe, but a few common-sense precautions can help make your visit safe and enjoyable.
- Swim Safe
There is NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY at Ottawa County lakeshore parks. Swim at your own risk in designated areas only. Life jackets are strongly recommended, especially for children and those who are not strong swimmers. Be alert for strong waves, sudden drop-offs, and rip currents that may not be visible. If caught in a rip current, stay calm, swim parallel to the shoreline until you are out of the current, then swim back to shore. Never try to swim directly against a rip current. Diving into lakes or streams is extremely dangerous as depths of natural waterways are impossible to judge and can change from day to day. Avoid swallowing lake water while swimming to help reduce the risk of illness. Check current beach water testing results and E. coli risk before you visit on the Department of Public Health’s beach watch page. - Beat the Heat
Hot and humid weather can increase the risk of heat-related illness. Plan strenuous activities for the cooler parts of the day, wear lightweight clothing, take breaks in the shade, and know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you or someone else begins showing symptoms, move to a cooler area, loosen or remove excess clothing, and sip cool water. Seek emergency medical care if symptoms are severe or do not improve. - H20 to Go
Bring plenty of drinking water for yourself and your pets. Heat and wind can quickly lead to dehydration, so drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Do not drink the water directly from lakes and rivers. It may look clean but can contain harmful bacteria, parasites, or other organisms that can cause illness. - Weather Alert
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Check the forecast before you visit and be prepared for changing conditions. Wear appropriate clothing and gear for the weather. - Uninvited Guests
Ticks, mosquitos and other insects may be encountered. Bites from blacklegged ticks can carry the risk of transmitting Lyme disease. Staying on trails and using bug spray can help. The most important step to take is completing a tick check after being outdoors. More information on preventing illnesses such as Lyme disease and West Nile Virus is available here. - Buddy System
Visit the parks with a friend. If you are visiting alone, let a friend know where you are going and when you will return. - Stay Connected
A park is a great place to unwind and unplug, but having a cell phone for emergencies is a good idea. - Safety Gear
Use the recommended safety gear. This means bike helmets, life jackets, sunscreen, appropriate footwear and so on. - On the Hunt
Be aware that some properties allow hunting. Be alert and take safety precautions, such as wearing hunter orange. If you are hunting on park properties, practice safe hunting procedures. - Avoid the Itch
While we try to keep trails clear, be aware of poison ivy and other irritating plants. - Animal Instinct
Treat all wildlife with caution and respect. Keep your distance and never feed wild animals. - Protect Your Pet Privileges
Dogs are welcome at most properties! A few rules are in place to help keep parks safe and enjoyable for everyone. Please keep your dog on a leash where required and clean up after them. - Slow Down
Whether on foot, bike or horse, maintain a safe, controlled speed. - Valuables
Lock valuables in the trunk of your car or take them with you. Better yet, leave them home and enjoy the priceless serenity of the park. - Leave No Trace
Help keep our parks beautiful by leaving nature as you found it. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and leave plants, wildlife, and natural features undisturbed. - Common Sense
Use good judgment and exercise caution while visiting the parks. We hope you have a safe and enjoyable visit!
