Can Your Kids’ Summer Fun Turn into a Germy Geyser?
Splishing and splashing on a hot summer day – what could be better? Splash pads have become a staple of many playgrounds and parks, offering kids a fun way to cool off. But are these seemingly harmless water features hiding a potential health hazard?
Experts are raising concerns about a growing problem: splash pad-associated disease outbreaks. While not unique to splash pads, the regulation of these water playgrounds is often inconsistent, leaving them vulnerable to the spread of dangerous pathogens.
“Prevention of waterborne disease outbreaks at splash pads requires changes in user behavior; recreational venue code updates; and improved venue design, construction, operation, and management of facilities," they conclude.
The issue lies in the very nature of splash pads. Designed to prevent water accumulation and drowning hazards, they often escape the rigorous health regulations applied to swimming pools. While chlorine is the standard disinfectant for recreational water, splash pads present a unique challenge. The constant spraying and jet action aerosolize chlorine, reducing its concentration and making it less effective against stubborn germs.
One of the biggest culprits is Cryptosporidium, or Crypto, a parasite notorious for its chlorine resistance. It can survive in chlorinated water for over a week, thriving in environments where chlorine levels might already be compromised.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sounded the alarm in 2023, recommending updated health codes that go beyond standard chlorine disinfection. These new guidelines call for "secondary disinfection" methods like ozone or ultraviolet light, as well as “single-pass" systems that don’t recirculate water.
But keeping kids healthy in splash pads requires a multi-pronged approach.
“Prevention of waterborne disease outbreaks at splash pads requires changes…,” they conclude. It boils down to a combination of responsible user behavior, improved splash pad design and maintenance, and robust regulatory oversight.
Simple actions like preventing children from sitting on water jets and drinking the water can make a world of difference.
Remember, while splash pads offer a fun way to beat the heat, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect your family.
