Summer day camps changing plans due to heat

AVONWORTH — Summer day camps are in full swing. The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh has 10 camps open right now across Allegheny County, serving 400 to 500 kids.

Channel 11 stopped by one of their camps today at Avonworth Community Park. Due to the extreme heat, camps are making adjustments to make sure kids stay safe.

“We are making sure the kids are doing all activities in the afternoon, either in the shade or indoors. We reduced the strenuous activities or (are) doing more sit-down activities like STEM and some art on these hot afternoons,” said Kim Black, the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh spokesperson.

They are also making sure the kids stay hydrated and protected from the sun. Camp leaders are having kids drinking plenty of water and wearing sunscreen on hot days.

“We also do a lot of water games. We have the mister up here, we do water balloons tosses,” said Black.

Camp officials said safety is their No. 1 priority and this hot weather can be dangerous for children, so the staff is keeping a close eye on any signs of heat-related problems.

“Then all of our staff go through training, so they are trained to recognize symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. A lot of them are first-aid (and) CPR certified,” said Black.

Right now, the camps are operating Monday through Friday. Parents can drop off as early as 7 a.m. and pick up as late as 6 p.m.. Camp leaders just ask that parents drop their kids off with a water bottle, and pack sunscreen, light-colored clothing and hats this summer.

Five more YMCA summer day camps will open next week to serve Pittsburgh children once they are out of school.

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