The city and BRiCk staff are aware of the concerns circulating in the community, particularly on social media, regarding safety concerns at the splash pad. The safety and well-being of our community members are our top priority. We want to share the steps that we have taken and will continue to take to ensure the safety of everyone who visits the city's newest amenity.
The splash pad was designed and met all safety standards, but we understand that as the site becomes operational and we observe how it is being used, adjustments may need to be made. First, a BRiCk staff member will be on-site during all splash pad hours to monitor safety and address issues as they arise. Second, city administration and BRiCk staff will meet with the splash pad's contractor and walk the site to address any concerns and look for ways to improve safety.
We also want to take a few moments to address each incident we have been made aware of.
- A report was received of a young child who burned their hands on the metal lid to a surge tank located outside of the splash pad fenced area. Even though this area is not a programmed area, it is accessible outside of the splash pad. Staff has applied a coat of rubberized, cooling paint to lower surface temperature. The paint was also applied to the metal plate covers located outside the splash pad as a precautionary measure. Staff spoke with the family at the time of the incident, but we also want to send our apologies to the family and wish the young child a very speedy recovery.
- A report was received on June 24 of an event that occurred on June 10 of a child who slipped while climbing the bunny spray feature. Staff is looking into options to minimize slips, such as applying extra coats of anti-slip texture to the surfacing.
- Staff was alerted to social media comments that unmonitored children were exiting through open gates at the splash pad. There are three gates around the splash pad, the main entry gate, an ADA gate and a maintenance gate near the pavilions. The gate near the pavilions was opened to provide easier access to those utilizing the pavilions. It was through this gate that some children exited. Staff is researching the best solution to mitigate concerns while complying with ADA requirements.
- Staff was forwarded a social media comment regarding a child who became ill the day following a trip to the splash pad. A formal complaint was never made with the city or the BRiCk staff. The splash pad chemicals are checked hourly, and levels have not fallen outside regulatory levels.
We look forward to continuing to offer this amenity to the public as safely as possible. We do also want to encourage users to review splash pad rules before they visit.