Splash pad safety tips for parents

Splash pads are safer than pools because there's no standing water to drown in. But kids still slip, get sunburned and swallow water they shouldn't. Here's how to keep the day fun.

Prevent slips and scrapes

• Use water shoes with grippy soles.
• Ask kids to walk, not run, near the edges where wet meets dry.
• Keep younger toddlers away from crowded, high-pressure jets that can knock them over.

Watch the sun and heat

• Reapply sunscreen every couple of hours and after towel drying.
• Feel the surface with your hand. Dry spots and metal features get hot by mid-afternoon.
• Take shade and water breaks. Being wet hides how hot kids are getting.

Keep the water clean

• Put swim diapers on children who aren't potty trained, and take bathroom breaks.
• Teach kids not to drink the spray. Many pads recirculate treated water.
• Keep kids home for 2 weeks after diarrhea, as the CDC recommends for recreational water.
• Rinse off and wash hands before snacks.

Weather and supervision

• Leave when you hear thunder. Most pads shut off automatically.
• Stay where you can see your kids. Splash pads are busy, and little ones wander toward parking lots and ponds.
• Agree on a meeting spot with older kids.

Find pads with restrooms and shade on our splash pads near me map.