5 Tips to Stay Safe at the Water Park

Are you planning a trip to a water park this summer?

Water parks are a popular destination for people looking to cool down in the summer heat, especially in landlocked states like Pennsylvania.There are numerous water parks in our area, including Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains, Montage Mountain, Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, Knoebels Crystal Pool, Kalahari Resort, CamelBeach Mountain Waterpark, Aquatopia, and more.

Last week, an 8-year-old boy died after he was found unresponsive in the water at Knoebels Crystal Pool. Investigators say the cause of death is still inconclusive, but this tragedy serves as a reminder that drowning can occur even in shallow water in a controlled environment.

Possible water park hazards include dehydration, too much sun, chlorine poisoning, slip and falls, and drowning. We’ve got 5 easy tips to help keep you and your family safe during your next water park visit.

Tips to stay safe:

1. Hydrate. When you’re in the water all day, you might not realize how quickly you can become dehydrated. Be sure to drink water often, avoiding drinks with caffeine, sugar, or artificial sweeteners.
2. Protect yourself from the sun. Wear sunglasses, a hat, and apply waterproof SPF 30 sunscreen before leaving home, and reapply throughout the day. Bring loose-fitting clothing to put on if you feel you have been getting too much sun.
3. Walk, don’t run. Walking surfaces at water parks get wet and slippery. Be sure walk, not run, especially around pools and when going up/down stairs.
4. Watch your children.  Many people erroneously believe that water wings or floatation device are a fair substitute for direct supervision. When children are in the water – even in a shallow pool – it’s important to pay close attention at all times. Lifeguards are not a replacement for parental supervision either. They serve to intervene in case of an emergency, but it’s best not to encounter an emergency in the first place.
5. Play by the rules. Pay attention to posted warnings, rules, age recommendations, and instructions throughout the water park.

If you or someone you love suffer an injury at a water park due to poorly maintained facilities or some other hazard putting patrons at risk, contact our office for a free consultation with a premises liability lawyer.