A visit to your local splash pad can be a great way for kids to cool off this summer and have fun. Splash pads are designed to prevent water from collecting in order to significantly reduce the risk of drowning. Children under five years of age are at highest risk of drowning and can drown in as little as 2.5 centimetres (one inch) of water.
They are a safe way for children to interact with water while reducing hazards associated with large water slides or swimming pools.
In order to ensure you and your family have a safe and enjoyable time at the splash pad there are a few things to remember for you day out:
- Sun protection – Wear sunscreen and other protective gear like hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
- Bring water and a snack – Be sure to bring water and a small snack to ensure your kids have enough energy for a fun filled time at the splash pad
- Walk, don’t run No running! – In order to prevent falls and other injuries to yourself, your kids or others avoid running on the splash pad
- Bring towels and beach chairs – Splash pads often have some seating for parents to keep a close eye on their kids but it’s a good idea to bring your own just in case there is none available. Also ensure you have clean dry towels when your kids are ready to dry off.
- Have spare swim diapers if needed – Many kids that enjoy the splash pad may still be wearing diapers – it’s important to have extra on hand to keep the water sanitary for everyone.
- Consider wearing water shoes – Splash pad surfaces are usually safe for children’s feet but in some cases it may be beneficial to wear water shoes.
- Supervise, Keep an eye on your kids – Splash pads can be much safer than swimming pools giving parents an opportunity to relax a bit – but it is still very important to keep an eye on your children to ensure they don’t get hurt or lost on their day at the splash pad.
Do’s & Don’ts of the splash pad
Do:
- Take kids on plenty of bathroom breaks
- Stay out of the water if you are sick with diarrhea
- Take turns with equipment (such as faucets, sprayers and toys)
- Report any broken or damaged equipment to the operator of the splash pad or the wading pool
Don’t:
- Swallow the water
- Poop or pee in the water
- Sit or stand on the jets – this can rinse harmful bacteria off your body and into the water supply
- Run – slips & falls can happen easily on wet surfaces. Walk on wet surfaces, and consider a water shoe to provide better grip
Check out the list of publicly accessible splash pads in Grey & Bruce below – be sure to review the posted signage regarding each location’s rules and regulations before your day of fun:
- Chesley Community Park
- McCarroll Park splash pad (Meaford)
- Lions Park splash pad (Kincardine)
- Lucknow splash pad
- Ripley splash pad
- Walkerton splash pad
- Wiarton Bluewater Park splash pad
- Port Elgin Lions Club splash pad
- Southampton Rotary splash pad
- Kelso Beach Park spray pad
Resources to check out:
Beat the heat, cool down at the splash pad! – Explore The Bruce | Bruce County
Tips for Splash Pad Fun/Safety (mysplashpad.com)
Splash Pads | Healthy Swimming | Healthy Water | CDC
