ORLANDO, Fl. – As temperatures rise in Central Florida, families look forward to more beach, pool, and playground time. But as the temperatures heat up, so does the playground equipment, posing a risk to children’s safety.
On scorching days, even a quick touch of playground surfaces can cause painful burns in less than five seconds. Bill Pandos, Seminole County’s Parks and Recreation manager, stresses the importance of being vigilant before letting kids play.
“Kids usually dash to the playground, but take a moment to check surfaces, especially on hot afternoons,” Bill advises. “Depending on its age, playground materials can get hot quickly and cause burns.”
He suggests parents test the temperature by touching different areas of the equipment themselves. “Put your hand on a piece of equipment to check,” he adds.
In Central Florida, playground equipment can heat up to a dangerous 128 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Bill recommends timing outings to avoid the hottest part of the day.
“Morning or late afternoon is best,” Bill suggests. “Avoid the peak heat between noon and 4 p.m.”
If a child does get burned, Bill advises immediate action. “Apply ice or cool water for 10-15 minutes and see a doctor,” he advises.
To prevent burns, Bill recommends dressing kids in long pants and sturdy shoes to minimize skin exposure. With these precautions, families can enjoy sunny days in Central Florida safely.
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