In Portage Lakes State Park, where picturesque lakes attract thousands of visitors every summer, tragedies in recent years cast a shadow over this natural paradise. Following several drowning incidents, including the recent death of a 49-year-old man from Akron on June 24, local resident Cory Evans launched a campaign to improve safety in the park. His increasingly popular petition calls for decisive changes — from clearer signage and fencing to increased numbers of lifeguards — to save lives and make the park safer for everyone.
Portage Lakes, located just a few miles from Akron’s industrial heart, has long been a favorite spot for families, anglers, and water recreation enthusiasts. On a hot Tuesday, when temperatures reached 29°C, park beaches buzzed with children’s laughter and the splash of waves. “It’s a little slice of heaven,” says Evans, who grew up swimming in these waters. But for him and many others, the joy of recreation is overshadowed by concerns over safety measures.
“If we can save even one life, it will be worth it,” emphasizes Evans, whose personal experience — losing his uncle in a frozen lake accident — motivated him to take action. His online petition calls for the installation of clear warning signs, improved fencing around swimming areas, hiring additional lifeguards and rangers, and educational programs about water safety. Evans has already discussed these ideas with local legislators, hoping that funding for these initiatives will be included in the next state budget.
Local visitors share his concerns. Patrick Smith, a resident of Green who brought his grandchildren to the beach, notes: “There are no lifeguards here, so you’re swimming at your own risk. I closely watch over the kids.” Similarly cautious is Ben S., a father of three from Michigan, who insists that his younger children always wear life jackets. “We love this place, but safety comes first,” he says.
The recent drowning incident on June 24, when a man went underwater near the park’s main beach and his body was only found hours later, served as a tragic reminder of the risks. The Franklin Fire Department confirmed that this is not the first such incident in the park. The lack of lifeguards and inadequate safety infrastructure raise increasing public concern.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), responding to inquiries, stated that safety is their “top priority.” A spokesperson emphasized the importance of safe swimming rules, such as wearing life jackets and supervising children. However, critics, including Evans, believe these recommendations are only half-measures that do not address systemic issues like staffing shortages or outdated infrastructure.
Evans’s petition is not just a call for change but also an attempt to reimagine how Ohio cares for its natural treasures. “This park can be safer and more inviting for everyone,” he says. “We must act before another tragedy occurs.” In a state where public parks are an economic and cultural asset, raising awareness about safety could serve as an example for other regions facing similar challenges.
As the petition gains support and families continue to enjoy sunny days on the lakes, the question remains: can Ohio find a balance between preserving the natural beauty of Portage Lakes and protecting those who come here for recreation? For Evans, the answer is clear: “Safety is an investment in the future of this place.”
