Ohio State Parks Working Group has recommendations for improvements

Local police, fire and EMS departments could get more resources to handle emergencies at Ohio’s state parks under new recommendations released by Governor Mike DeWine.

The Public Safety in Ohio State Parks Working Group came up with seven recommendations aimed at improving emergency response and helping local departments that assist state crews.

One of the biggest proposals is a new grant program for local agencies that regularly respond to emergencies at state parks. The money could be used for additional officers, overtime during busy tourism seasons, equipment and new technology.

The group says Ohio has nearly 200 natural resources officers covering the state’s parks, forests, waterways and natural areas, making help from local first responders essential.

Another recommendation calls for a pilot program using drones as first responders. Pre-positioned drones could be sent to an emergency before crews arrive, providing live video and helping responders navigate remote or rugged areas.

The report also recommends more state-park-specific emergency training between state and county agencies, a possible public safety fee for large events held at state parks and making it easier for local departments to request mutual aid.

DeWine created the working group last year to look at emergency services at Ohio’s 76 state parks. The group says state and local agencies already have strong partnerships and considers Ohio’s parks safe, but believes the recommendations could strengthen emergency response as tens of millions of people continue to visit the parks each year.