LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Toys, food wrappers, water balloons and other debris left behind at splash pads can end up in the filtration system, blocking pipes and damaging equipment.
That was the situation at the splash pad in Rodgers Park, which caused a delay in opening and families not able to use the facility.
Chase Helms with the Parks and Recreation Department said little pieces of trash add up and can cause more damage to the splash pads than expected.
“So some of the main things that we can see are like water balloons or other trash and debris that can get into the drains, and into the system that can clog up the system, create pressure issues, and possibly make it unsafe to properly chlorinate and sanitize the water,” Helms said.
Helms said when trash and other items make their way into the filtration system, the repairs can be more than just a quick cleanup.
“It can be anything from cleaning out a strainer basket, which can be probably about a thirty minute delay,” Helms said. “Filled with water balloons and the water tank that supplies the water for the splash pad is just filled, we have to completely drain the tank, clean it out, fill it back up and restart and that process can take anywhere between three to four hours.”
Helms said the splash pads were made to create memories, celebrate loved ones and a place to cool off with kids in the summer.
He encouraged the community to do their part in keeping the area clean so the water can keep flowing for everyone.
“Come out here to have fun, come play in the water, everyone loves a good water balloon fight, but just just anything that small little debris that can go down into the drain, just go ahead and keep it off of the pads, so that way it doesn’t prevent issues that may keep you from being able to play,” Helms said.
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