Editor's note: As Arizona continues to battle COVID-19, please follow social distancing and face covering guidelines in public at all times, including playgrounds.
A day at the playground can be tempting on a bright sunny day, but in the Arizona heat, it can also be dangerous.
Children playing outside during Arizona summers can face 100 days or more of temperatures north of 100°F. Too often playgrounds use heat-retaining, unnatural surfaces in the middle of parks with no shade, especially in Phoenix. These unshaded playgrounds can act as mini heat islands, which can disincentivize physically active play or even lead to burns.
ASU urban climate researchers Jennifer Vanos and Ariane Middel believe proper shading of playgrounds may be a solution.
“Shade protects children from the sun and keeps playground equipment cool and touchable,” said Middel. Their research provides insight into these spaces, as well as tips on keeping children safe in the heat.
Infographic by Alex Davis/Media Relations and Strategic Communications
More Health and medicine
ASU researchers: Over-the-counter flu tests can 'revolutionize public health'
Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, causes 50,000-plus of deaths annually, but over-the-counter (OTC) tests for the disease are just beginning to emerge and are difficult to access.That’s a…
The beauty bias
Being one of the beautiful people has its benefits, but according to a recent study, living longer may not be one of them. On the other hand, those not blessed with the best facial features…
New online certificate program in domestic violence debuts at ASU in fall
Arizona State University is expanding the reach of a certificate program that prepares social services providers to serve people affected by domestic violence by offering the curriculum online…