As the sweltering heat continues, many local residents take part in the Philadelphia tradition of cooling off in the city’s fountains. But they may be in for some trouble thanks to an often ignored rule from the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.
A Parks and Rec spokesperson told NBC10 swimming in the fountains is not allowed due to safety concerns. The spokesperson said the fountains are not designed for swimming due to metal and stone floating around.
“I wouldn’t get in it,” said Kyle Beatty of Fairmount, who brought his dog for a fountain dip. “I mean I might dip my feet in it but there are people swimming.”
Officials say a better alternative is to seek out one of the city’s many public pools. Small children can also cool off in the Sister Cities Park, just across the street from Logan Circle where wading in the water is both allowed and encouraged.
Park Rangers perform spot checks at all of the city’s fountains. Anyone caught swimming in them could be fined.
