NEW YORK, Aug 6: Waterparks are a staple of summer fun, especially for children, but waterslides carry several health risks that may not be widely known. Recent data indicates that waterslides result in more incidents than other amusement park attractions, including roller coasters and trampolines.

Dr. Ali Jamehdor, an emergency medicine physician and medical director at the Weingart Foundation Emergency Department, highlights the high-speed nature of waterslides and the minimal body protection they offer as key factors contributing to injuries. “You’re moving at such a high rate on a slide, and there is very little protection around your body,” Jamehdor explains.

Common waterslide injuries:

• Cuts and gashes: Waterslides, often made of smooth plastic, can cause cuts if there are imperfections such as chips or bolts. Objects dropped by previous riders or collisions with others can also lead to lacerations. Dr. Jamehdor recommends using a tube or mat and maintaining ample space between riders to reduce these risks.
• Broken bones: Dr. Michael Levine of UCLA Health has observed cases of broken bones from improper sliding positions. Injuries such as fractures or tailbone breaks can occur if riders go headfirst or bounce on the slide. To minimize risk, Jamehdor advises keeping a compact body position and following the waterpark’s instructions, such as crossing your arms.
• Lacerations: High-speed slides can cause vaginal injuries, as seen in a 2023 lawsuit against Disney World. Extreme slides at some parks, like Austria’s Area 47, even ban women to avoid these injuries. Dr. Jamehdor advises women to keep their legs crossed while riding to prevent such lacerations.
• Injuries: Men are also vulnerable to testicular injuries from high-speed impacts. Jamehdor suggests that men should cross their legs to prevent such injuries.
• Water enemas: Waterslide enemas, where water is forcefully pushed into the rectum, have been reported. This occurs when bathing suits shift and high-speed water pressure causes the issue. Wearing securely fitting swimwear and crossing legs may help mitigate this risk.
• Parasites: Cryptosporidium, a parasite that causes severe diarrhea, can thrive in inadequately chlorinated water. The CDC reports 208 outbreaks linked to recreational water between 2015 and 2019. Dr. Levine and Dr. Erin Muckey recommend avoiding swallowing pool water and using facilities with proper water treatment.
• Heat illness: Despite being in water, heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur. Dr. Levine advises staying hydrated and taking breaks in cooler areas to avoid heat-related sickness.

By understanding these risks and following safety tips, visitors can enjoy waterslides while minimizing potential health hazards.