(CBS DETROIT) — Angela Berels and her three children enjoyed a beautiful day outside in Brandenburg Park Tuesday along Lake St. Clair.
A mild 70-degree day might not make the metal, slides or swings too hot to touch, but if the temperature reaches 90 degrees, as is expected next week, it could be a different story.
“Normally they know when it’s hot. They also know when it’s too hot,” Berels told CBS News Detroit about her children.
She says even on the hottest days they normally prefer water. But even then, she always brings the basics with her for her 4, 8 and 10 year olds.
“Normally just sunscreen for their skin. Something like that, but normally when it’s too hot they want to stay near the water,” says Berels.
Some tips to consider ahead of time when it comes to hot playground equipment, as provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, are that it does not have to be hot to be burned. As long as the equipment or surface is in direct sunlight, it will heat up.
Metal isn’t the only material that causes burns. Plastic coverings, rubber and metals coated with heat-reducing paint are also at risk.
What can you do? Pay attention to dark-colored plastics and rubber. Do not assume that equipment is safe. Always check the temperature of equipment and surface. Dress children appropriately and, as usual, always supervise your children on the playground.
