Ohio Department Of Natural Resources Shares Tips For Winter At State Parks
Zanesville, OH- As winter brings colder weather to the area, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) wants to make sure you are staying safe when it comes to exploring Ohio’s state parks this year.
Whether you are hiking in the park or out on the lakes this winter, the most important thing is to be prepared. According to ODNR, nearly 90% of boating fatalities are due to drowning, and nearly half of those are attributed to the effects of immersion in cold water. Remember to always wear a life jacket. Hiking can become a problem too when the cold and snowy weather hits.
“Hiking is beautiful this time of year. Even in colder weather, we have a lot of wonderful winter hikes. We have very cold temperatures and sometimes with snow on the ground, some of the hikes or our trail systems might not be as passable as they were a couple months earlier,” Natural Resources Officer Dawn Powell said.
It is important to always remember to double check the weather report before you leave. Make sure to tell someone where you are going and a possible return time as well. The last winter storm hit Ohio fast and temperatures can fall quickly and wind can cause an impassable snow drift on trails. Officer Dawn Powell had some more tips before you head out.
“Maybe scout out where you like to go and see if it’s been plowed. See how passable it is. Make sure you’re dressed for the weather, make sure your phone is charged.”
If you would like to find out any more information about Ohio’s state parks or the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, check out the website below.
