Water parks a hit on hot, sticky day

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Beating the heat remains a challenge Thursday in the high humidity, but it's getting easier for some people living in Providence.

• Related: Today's Weather Discussion
• Explainer: What's The Heat Index?

Cabral Park on Wickenden Street is one of four water parks that Providence has opened early. The others are Richardson Street Park, General Street Park and Fargnoli Park. They all opened their gates at 10 a.m.

Water Park locations

• Richardson Street Park (Prairie Avenue in South Providence)
• Cabral Park ( Wickenden Street in Fox Point)
• General Street Park (off Admiral Street in Wanskuck)
• Fargnoli Park (Smith Street near Academy Avenue in Elmhurst)

Campers from The Boys and Girls Club flocked to the park early, before the water turned on, waiting to cool off.

"Thank God we have this to keep the kids cool, they were really excited when we told them this was going to open today," said Mike Scarpetti of The Boys and Girls Club.

Parents like Jasmine Alvarez said when temps are high, hydration is key.

"You gotta be extremely cautious with the baby, so he doesn't get dehydrated, get sick, you gotta keep him away from the sun with his milk."

The city of Providence had originally scheduled the four water parks to open on July 2, but they decided to move that date up to accommodate children and families during the excessive heat.

In addition to water parks, there are cooling centers located throughout Providence.

• More: Cooling centers by city or town

However, city pools are not opening early, they're set to open sometimes next week.

The Salvation Army's cooling station opened at noon in Kennedy Plaza across from City Hall.

Although many Providence residents are enjoying the heat wave at local water parks, air conditioner repairmen have been extremely busy.

A service manager for Regan Heating and Air Conditioning says the company received 40 calls for installations and repairs today.