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
New book highlights physician wellness, burnout solutions
Health care professionals dedicate their lives to helping others, but the personal toll of their work often remains hidden.A new book, "Physician Wellness and Resilience: Narrative Prompts to Address…
80 years of pioneering speech and hearing services for the community
Over 80 years ago, in 1937, the first course in communication disorders, Speech Correction, was offered at Arizona State University. As additional courses were added and programs in speech…
First 2 degree offerings from ASU Health available in fall 2025
The first degree offerings from ASU Health will help students find jobs in the modernized health care system.The one-year Master of Science in Public Health Technology and the two-year Master of…