What should I do if my child steps on something sharp at a splash pad?

Despite cleaning protocols splash pads occasionally collect glass shards, broken plastic, sharp pebbles, or metal debris. If your child steps on something, lift them off the wet surface to a dry seat where you can examine the foot. Visible shallow objects (small splinter, sand-stuck pebble) can be pulled with clean tweezers — pull straight out at the angle it entered. Do not dig for embedded objects; leave them in place to prevent further bleeding and seek medical care. Wash the wound with soap and bottled water, apply pressure for 5-10 minutes if bleeding, and cover with a waterproof bandage. Tetanus is a real concern for any puncture from rusted metal, dirt-contaminated objects, or animal-related material — verify your child's tetanus shot is current (within 5 years for dirty wounds). Photograph the object and report it to splash pad staff so others are not injured. Watch for infection signs over the next 72 hours and seek care for any redness, swelling, fever, or red streaks.