Adventure Reef Water Park nears opening
Warm, sunny weather is almost here. People are ready for cookouts, play dates and especially swimming. If you’re ready for a splashing good time this summer, dive in with the city of Kettering.
Adventure Reef Water Park opens for the season May 28. The water park will be here until Labor Day weekend with the region’s best water slides, leisure pool, splash pad and Clownfish Cove kiddie pool.
Just want to dash out and cool off with the kids? The Splash Pad at J.F. Kennedy Park, which also opens Memorial Day weekend, is a community favorite summer destination that’s always free. Check out the farm-themed playground while you’re there.
Did you know May is National Water Safety Month? Before the summer kicks off, make sure you keep our top safety tips in mind to maximize your summer fun:
■ Wear sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and reapply according to the directions. Make sure the sunscreen you choose is water resistant and that you reapply more often if you’ve been in the pool.
■ Dress for the weather: Wear light-colored clothing on hot, sunny days. If you’re staying on land, stick to natural, breathable fibers like cotton. For swimmers, try a swim shirt to help shield you from the sun. Sunglasses are a must — find a pair that blocks out UV rays to protect your eyes.
■ Stay hydrated: Swimming is a lot of work, and you may not notice yourself sweating while you’re in the pool. Make sure you drink plenty of water and make time for breaks in the shade to avoid heatstroke.
■ Learn to swim: The city’s lifeguarding staff is wonderful, but the responsibility to stay safe
starts with you. Make sure you’re comfortable in the water before jumping in, and know where the deep and shallow areas are.
■ Keep kids close: No matter how well your children can swim, keep them in your sight at all times. Children under school age should remain within arm’s reach, so grab your suit and hop into the water with them. Even if your children are older, make sure you always know where they are and that they have a trustworthy buddy to swim with.
■ Follow the rules: Pool and park rules aren’t there to take the fun out of your summer experience — they’re there to keep you safe! Make sure to take note of what’s allowed and what’s not. Cooperate with the pool staff when directed. If they close the pool, it’s always for a good reason — health hazards and weather threats are some possible reasons for a closure. Better safe than sorry as summer approaches.