More than 70 police calls at the MKT Trail last year

It is perfect trail weather again in Mid-Missouri, but unfortunately, according to statistics, it may not be all leisure and fun.

Police have been called seventy-eight times to the MKT trail last year and five times already this month. Many of the calls are 911 calls.

ABC 17 spoke to residents today walking and cycling the MKT trail who said they are not scared.

“I think the chance of something happening to you is very, very rare,” said resident Jim McDaniel.

McDaniel says he uses the trail daily and let’s his kids walk alone in more well traveled areas.

But police reports show disagreeing statistics, police calls have been made all along the trail.

Columbia Parks and Recreation Spokeswoman, Janet Godon said she suggests the buddy system.

“Go with a buddy, go when the park’s open,” said Godon.

Godon asks for people to report any shady activity; there were fifteen suspicious person calls last year.

Car break-ins have been an issue too, there were three in one night at Twin Lakes park last month.

Godon said to put valuable items under your seat or lock them in your glove-box or trunk.

Park and trail problems and crime are not just an issue in Mid-Missouri.

Safety professionals say it is wise to tell someone where you are going, bring identification, mace spray and do not bring anything valuable, like a wallet.