Valpo Parks Strengthens Commitment to Safety with Second Certified Playground Safety Inspector

Valpo Parks is proud to announce that Matt Slack, Facilities and Maintenance Director, has successfully earned his Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification, making him the second CPSI-certified professional on the Valpo Parks team. He joins Chris Michalak, who also holds this important credential, further solidifying the department’s dedication to providing safe play environments for the community. 

The Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification program is the industry-leading standard in playground safety, offered by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). This rigorous program provides comprehensive and up-to-date training on all critical aspects of playground safety, including: 

• Hazard identification 
• Equipment specifications 
• Surfacing requirements 
• Risk management methods 

“The safety of our park patrons, especially our children, is always our top priority,” said Kevin Nuppnau, Valpo Parks Director. “Having two Certified Playground Safety Inspectors on staff demonstrates our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety across all our playgrounds. Matt’s achievement, alongside Chris’s existing expertise, ensures that our facilities are continually inspected, maintained, and designed with the utmost attention to safety, providing peace of mind for families enjoying Valpo Parks.” 

The CPSI certification requires extensive knowledge and a thorough understanding of national playground safety standards. With two certified inspectors, Valpo Parks is well-equipped to proactively identify and mitigate potential hazards, ensuring that Valparaiso’s playgrounds remain safe, fun, and accessible for everyone.

“Routine inspections are essential to maintain the high quality of our playgrounds,” said Matt Slack, Valpo Parks Facilities and Maintenance Director. “The training we’ve received equips us to conduct thorough inspections, identifying potential issues, hazards, and safety concerns. This ensures that our playgrounds remain safe and enjoyable for our community to use.” 

About Valpo Parks: Valpo Parks is dedicated to enriching our community by designing meaningful spaces, creating impactful experiences, and promoting healthy lifestyles.