Hot Slide Burns: Missouri Girl Injured at Jefferson City Park
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jefferson City, MO – A day of summer fun turned painful for a four-year-old girl in Jefferson City last week after she sustained burns from a hot metal slide at a local park. Caroline Marrow-Cronin was enjoying Juneteenth with her mother, andrea Marrow-Cronin, at Community Park when the incident occurred, prompting park officials to temporarily close the slide [1].
details of the Incident
Andrea Marrow-Cronin explained that she and Caroline visited the Splash Park at Community Park to escape the summer heat. In a brief moment,Andrea lost sight of her daughter,who then decided to use the metal slide.
“I really hadn’t planned on my daughter using the slides, but I lost track of her in the crowd for a couple seconds,” marrow-Cronin stated.
The seemingly harmless slide resulted in burns for young Caroline. “Her skin kept getting redder and redder and redder. And then it started to bubble and blister, and it was like, ‘oh my gosh, I let my kid go down a hot slide, and she burned herself’,” said Andrea.
Medical Treatment and Recovery
When Caroline’s pain persisted, Andrea took her to urgent care.Doctors prescribed medicated creams and advised Tylenol and ice cream for comfort.
Did You know? Metal surfaces can reach extreme temperatures in direct sunlight, with dark-colored metals heating up faster than lighter shades [2].
park Response and Safety Measures
Andrea Marrow-Cronin contacted JC Parks to inform them of the potential hazard. While she doesn’t blame the park, she hopes to raise awareness among other parents.
“I meen, my kid got hurt and she was on my watch. It was my responsibility. But, you know, be aware of how hot those metal slides get,” Marrow-Cronin cautioned.
JC Parks responded promptly, stating in an email to KRCG that staff members have taken temperature readings and decided to close the metal slide features until further notice. The park is consulting with the slide manufacturer for solutions to reopen the feature safely.
Pro tip: always check the temperature of playground equipment before allowing children to use it, especially on hot days.
Preventative Measures for Playground Safety
This incident highlights the importance of playground safety, especially during the summer months. According to the National program for Playground Safety (NPPS), approximately 200,000 children are treated for playground-related injuries each year in U.S. emergency rooms [3]. Parents and caregivers should take precautions to prevent injuries related to hot surfaces.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Check surface Temperature | Always test the temperature of slides, swings, and other equipment before use. |
| Choose Shaded playgrounds | Opt for playgrounds with shade structures or natural shade from trees. |
| Dress Appropriately | Dress children in light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to minimize heat absorption. |
| Supervise Children | Closely supervise children to ensure they are playing safely and avoiding hazards. |
What steps do you take to ensure playground safety for your children? How can parks better protect children from hot surfaces?
Understanding Playground Surface Temperatures
Playground surfaces, particularly those made of metal or dark-colored materials, can reach dangerously high temperatures in direct sunlight. Air temperature alone is not an accurate indicator of surface temperature. On a day when the air temperature is 90ยฐF (32ยฐC), surfaces like rubber or metal can exceed 160ยฐF (71ยฐC) [4].
The type of material substantially impacts how quickly and intensely a surface heats up. Metal slides and dark-colored rubber surfaces are particularly prone to becoming extremely hot. Alternatives like light-colored plastic or wood can definitely help reduce the risk of burns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Playground Safety
What are common playground hazards?
Common playground hazards include hot surfaces, inadequate fall surfacing, entrapment hazards, and sharp edges or protrusions.
How often should playground equipment be inspected?
Playground equipment should be inspected regularly, ideally daily, for any signs of damage or hazards.
What type of clothing is best for playground safety?
Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing is best for playground safety, as it minimizes heat absorption and allows for greater freedom of movement.
what should I do if my child gets burned on playground equipment?
If your child gets burned on playground equipment, instantly cool the affected area with water and seek medical attention if the burn is severe.
How can I advocate for safer playgrounds in my community?
You can advocate for safer playgrounds by contacting your local parks department, attending community meetings, and raising awareness among other parents and caregivers.
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