Topeka spray parks open; heat warnings issued

Topeka water parks have opened, and the Salvation Army has issued warnings and guides concerning the summer heat.

HEAT SAFETY

• Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
• Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Ensure they have water and a shady place to rest.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

HEAT CAN BE DANGEROUS

Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Avoid problems by drinking plenty of fluids and limiting drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish their fluids with half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.

If a person is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

HEAT STROKE IS LIFE-THREATENING

Signs include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately if someone shows signs of heatstroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.

READ: Spirit of Kansas, other Topeka events to celebrate our Independence

Jackson Spray Park reopens to join other local water parks

Jackson Spray Park, SE 8th and Lake, has reopened. A broken pump has been replaced and the park is ready for more summer fun. Jackson Spray Park is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Free Admission.

• The Dornwood Spray Park, 2500 S.E. Highland Ave. is also open with free Admission

Aquatic centers hours are noon to 7 p.m. daily, with admission $7 for adults; $6 for children ages 2 to 12; and free for children under age 2.

• The Blaisdell Family Aquatic Center, 4201 S.W. Reinisch Parkway, in Gage Park.
• The Midwest Health Aquatic Center, 2201 S.W. Urish Road.
• The Shawnee North Family Aquatic Center, 300 N.E. 43rd.

Community swimming pools are open from noon to 5 p.m. daily. Admission at community pools in the city of Topeka is $2 for those 2 and older and free for children under age 2.

• The Garfield pool, 1600 N.E. Quincy.
• The Hillcrest pool, 1800 S.E. 21st.
• The Oakland pool, 801 N.E. Poplar.

–Lee Hartman | Metro Voice

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