Splash pads under strict new rules

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - More and more kids are choosing splash pads over the neighborhood pool as a way to cool down when the temperatures skyrocket. That increase in popularity, as well as outbreak of sickness across the country that had been traced to splash pads, has resulted in new regulations by the Ohio Department of Health.

Beginning April 1, 2011, splash pads are in the same category as pools in the state of Ohio. That means the water flowing through the splash parks must be chlorinated and treated the same as pool water.

Here in the Dayton area, that doesn't mean many changes. Five Rivers Metroparks, which operates three splash parks in the Dayton area, was already treating its water. But, Public Health Dayton-Montgomery County is now charged with inspecting the splash pads before the parks can open for the season.

Once a park has passed the initial inspection, it may open for the season. From there, Public Health Dayton-Montgomery County will complete water quality inspections every two weeks.

Still, there are some things families can do to prevent contamination of the water. First, be sure to shower before you go to a pool or splash pad. Also, wash your hands after using the restroom. For small children still in diapers, be sure to put them in swim diapers, and only change those diapers in the restroom. Lastly, if anyone in your party is suffering from diarrhea, splash parks and pools are out of the question.

Wegerzyn Metropark Children's Garden is already open to children, and Riverscape and Island Park are expected to follow in the coming days.