Hot playground fix urged
Andrew S. Garib, METRO New York Link PDF Parents whose kids have been burned by dangerously hot playground mats have an ally at City Hall.
Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum said in a letter to Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe that the black rubber mats, which have caused serious burns to children’s feet, should be replaced with safer alternatives. The current mats have reached 160 degrees in the sun.
The shock-absorbing mats “are designed to protect children, but end up burning them and sending them to the hospital,” Gotbaum said.
Gotbaum and watchdog NYC Park Advocates recommended mats in lighter colors that won’t absorb as much heat from the sun, as advised by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. They also asked for signs that clearly warn parents of the danger of bare skin on hot mats. Current signage that just requires park patrons to wear footwear could be confusing, they said.
Parents of burn victims said they appreciated having Gotbaum on their side.
“It’s an incredibly big step,” said Rich Casson, whose 2-year-old son Will’s burned feet were featured on the cover of Metro Friday. “Our goal is to make a change.” 
Published 08.07.21 02:00:00 -0500 GMT
Posted by Andrew Garib on 08.07.21 
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