Spray Pools and Splash Fountains: Design and Definitions
Modern urban landscapes often incorporate water features that blend art with recreation. From children's play areas to grand public squares, these installations provide cooling and entertainment without the risks associated with deep-water pools. While often used interchangeably, terms like spray pools and splash fountains describe specific types of water-based infrastructure.
Defining the Spray Pool
A spray pool is characterized by its inability to hold standing water. According to a 1986 Health Act in British Columbia, it is defined as an artificially constructed basin or depression designed for children, where potable water—water that is safe for drinking—is sprayed but not permitted to accumulate at the bottom.
Similarly, the city of Norfolk, Virginia, defines a spray pool as a shallow, manmade structure built from materials other than natural soil. These structures are designed to spray humans with water and must include a designated drainage area. This drainage system ensures that water is removed from the nozzles at a rate fast enough to prevent the impounding of water.
In professional and architectural contexts, these features may also be referred to as wet decks or interactive fountains.
The Appeal of Splash Fountains
While spray pools are often associated with children, splash fountains are designed for users of all ages. These installations serve a dual purpose: they are visually striking from a distance and highly interactive for those who enter them.
To ensure accessibility and safety, splash fountains are typically installed at ground level and utilize nonslip surfaces. Because they maintain no standing water, they eliminate drowning hazards, which removes the requirement for professional lifeguards on site.
For artistic effect, these fountains are often programmed so that multiple jets start and stop in unison or follow specific patterns. While they are common in children's splash pads, they are also frequently integrated into urban beaches and public squares.
![The Splash Fountain in Krasnodar, Russia, the largest splash fountain in Europe[5]](/images/a0/f8/a0f8fe09581f6cf4e6543f1c49563dd1d2bd5dcec0497514505470417ab95d1d.jpg)
Key Facts
- No Standing Water: Both spray pools and splash fountains are designed to prevent water accumulation to eliminate drowning risks.
- Safety: The lack of deep water means lifeguards are not required for these installations.
- Materials: Spray pools must be constructed from manmade materials rather than natural earth or soil.
- Versatility: Splash fountains are designed for all age groups and are often used for artistic urban displays.
- Terminology: These features are also known as interactive fountains or wet decks.
| Feature | Spray Pool | Splash Fountain |
|---|---|---|
| Primary User | Children | All ages |
| Water Accumulation | None (Rapid drainage) | None (No standing water) |
| Primary Purpose | Recreation/Play | Aesthetics and Interaction |
| Common Locations | Play areas | Public squares, urban beaches, parks |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a spray pool and a traditional pool?
The primary difference is that a spray pool is designed to prevent the impounding or accumulation of water, whereas a traditional pool is designed to hold a volume of water.
Are lifeguards required for splash fountains?
No, because splash fountains have no standing water, the drowning hazard is eliminated, making lifeguards unnecessary.
What is potable water in the context of spray pools?
Potable water refers to water that is treated and safe for human consumption, which is the standard for water sprayed in these facilities.
Where are splash fountains typically located?
They are commonly found in public parks, urban beaches, and public squares due to their visual appeal and accessibility.
What other names are used for these water features?
They are frequently referred to as interactive fountains or wet decks.