A rise in visitors to Rochester’s spray parks coincides with a heat advisory

Rochester, New York – A scorching summer week is about to begin, and since the highs will last for a few days, city dwellers are flocking to spray parks.

Mayor Malik Evans of Rochester proclaimed a weeklong extended cool sweep for the city.

Tuesday through Friday, R-Centers and spray parks will remain open until nine o’clock at night.
Open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. are the spray features at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, Fourth and Peck Park, and Troup Street Park.

“It’s my baby’s first time,” said Jacqueline Torres, a mother in Rochester. “I want her to enjoy the weather and enjoy the water,”

“The kids were dying to get in the water,” said Shamell McCullough, a mother who came to the Carter Street R-Center with her family.

The best thing about the spray park, apart from seeing familiar acquaintances, was getting away from the heat.

“I’ve been splashing people,” said Essiana Bush, who was enjoying her time with friends and family at the park. “You get to cool down.”

Some people came with their animals to enjoy the water.

“It’s really hot out, but we’re enjoying as much as we can, trying to stay in the shade, drinking water,” said Journey Hamilton, who stopped by the David F. Gantt R-Center with her dog. “Just coming out made the day even better.”

In addition, hydration is advised by Rochester medical professionals as one of numerous strategies to prevent heat exhaustion, which can develop into heat stroke.

“When someone is having heat exhaustion, they may get some mild headache,” said Dr. Bohdan Klymochko, a University of Rochester Medical Center urgent care physician. “They may get a little bit dizzy or lightheaded. They might look a little pale, feel a little clammy, sweaty. They might feel a little bit weak, some muscle cramps, very thirsty.”

It is possible to treat heat exhaustion at home. In the event that someone is having symptoms, they should lie down, drink plenty of water, and make an effort to stay cool by wearing loose clothing or applying compresses. You can also get in touch with primary care doctors.
Heat exhaustion is regarded as more serious.

“The body temperature’s much higher; 104 or more,” said Klymochko. “Their heart rate is likely going to be very, very fast. Again, they may be confused if they’re unconscious if they have a seizure. Another clue might be that their skin is actually very hot but dry. They’re not sweating anymore.”

Klymochko continues, saying that if someone is experiencing heat stroke, they should call emergency services right once. They should be kept chilled until first responders come, but they shouldn’t be given any liquids.

Prevention is the best defense against heat-related illnesses, claims Klymochko.

“The biggest thing again is just monitoring your children, your family, your friends, closely, taking frequent breaks, applying sunscreen as appropriate, making sure you’re sitting in the shaded areas for five, ten minutes, drinking your water, having a snack,” he advised.

As long as the weather stays warm, spray parks will probably be packed.

“We will be out here for the rest of the week trying to beat the heat,” said Shante Jenkins, a mother who brought her children to the David F. Gantt R-Center.