Families Flock to Local Splash Pads to Beat the Heat

With an excessive heat warning issued across the metro on Tuesday, families looking to cool down found the perfect place in New Hope – the YMCA.

“We are out here trying to beat the heat, I think like a lot of people,” said Daniella Saima, a New Hope parent. “It’s hot, and the kids need to run off their energy. The only way to do that without going crazy in the house is to go outside and get in the water.”

Saima and her kids were among the many families who spent the day at the New Hope YMCA’s outdoor splash deck.

Kids made their way to the YMCA in New Hope on Tuesday to enjoy the outdoor splash deck.

All summer, members and kids who are involved in one of the Y’s summer programs can use the outdoor amenity.

It includes a water slide, spray jets and other popular cooling-off features.

Staff members at the YMCA utilize many cooling-off techniques on hot summer days to help kids avoid heat illnesses.

“On hot days, water is the theme,” said Mark Ihrke, executive director of the New Hope YMCA. “Being in the water, we utilize sprinklers, we utilize the splash pad, different things at our camps — the lakes, drinking water, staying hydrated. So water’s the theme on a hot day.”

The New Hope YMCA’s outdoor splash deck will remain open through Labor Day.

New Hope