Children can reportedly be allowed to play in pedestrian fountains, according to experts.
Fountains for Strolling: Fun or Felony?
The increasing popularity of pedestrian fountains, those shooting up from the ground, has turned them into subjects of public scrutiny, especially after a tragic incident caused by electric shock. Parents are questioning whether these fountains are truly safe for children to play around, and whether they were ever designed for recreation.
Splash, Run, and Play - But Beware!
Professionals explain that these fountains are designed for fun, just as intended, twisting the myth that they were strictly cooling mechanisms. "Unlike traditional standing-bowl fountains, pedestrian fountains are seamlessly integrated into walking areas, making them a favorite among children and adults alike," asserts Fontraid, a company specializing in fountain installations.
Similarly, other manufacturers share this view. "Some dry fountain models are designed to encourage water interaction and sometimes come with accompanying light and sound effects. These interactive fountains are essentially playful landscapes that infuse an interactive element into surroundings," elaborates Rusfountain, another prominent player in the fountain industry.
However, safety is paramount, and experts emphasize the importance of proper installation protocols. An inadequate or unsafe cable connection could potentially create an electric shock risk. "Correct installation and respecting electrical safety guidelines are vital to ensuring the safety of the fountain for anyone in its proximity," states ITK-group, known for its pedestrian fountain installations in various cities.
The Gritty History
In Belgorod, a heartbreaking tragedy in a pedestrian fountain last year shook the community. Since then, other cities have installed rules for safe designated playtimes. In other cities, such as Yekaterinburg, these precautions remain absent.
Historically, accidents involving pedestrian fountains have included minor injuries like cuts and falls. In Cheboksary, a six-year-old girl once tore a tendon while playing, and a child from Ufa suffered a deep cut on her hand due to slippery grates.
Ekaterinburg, Elena Sycheva
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Be cautious, but don't let the fear keep our little ones away from these fun water features entirely. Strict adherence to safety guidelines, proper maintenance, and a bit of adult supervision are keys to ensuring carefree fun around pedestrian fountains.
But remember, water quality is just as crucial as safe design. Regular maintenance, testing, and replacing the water to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms are necessary to ensure a safe play area for children. And always teach children about potential risks, how to behave safely, and the significance of cleanliness around fountains. With a little extra vigilance, pedestrian fountains can be a fascinating addition to public spaces, making the world a little more playful and FUN-tastic!
While these fountains are designed for fun and interactive play, they are equally part of the health-and-wellness and general-news sectors, given the importance of ensuring their safety. Moreover, the risk of accidents in pedestrian fountains, such as electric shock or injuries due to slippery surfaces, underscores the need for science-based safety guidelines and proper maintenance to maintain their status as safe and enjoyable places for everyone, particularly children.
