7 Children Fall Sick From Heat Exhaustion In Newington

NEWINGTON, CT — Seven children fell sick due to dehydration and heat at the Summer Camp Carnival Day Trip, according to the Parks and Recreation Department. The children were taken to the hospital when necessary by a professional ambulance service.

"We want all parents to know that you would have already been contacted by us if your child was sick," the department said on Facebook. "Therefore, please be assured that if you were not contacted by us, your child is fine."

The camp had about 900 children in attendance. Parks and Recreation officials said they did take several precautions and stayed in contact with the town's weather service. They had also purchased several spray misters for the children which were placed around the park.

"We rented more tents than we have ever had in 38 years. This provided great shade cover and reduced the temperatures about ten degrees. Over 30 picnic tables were purchased and placed under the tents. Many igloo water jugs were purchased and filled with ice water and placed all around the park for hydration purposes."

They also included a cooling misting tent, showers, and a free-to-use swimming pool. Five large air-conditioned rooms at town hall were also provided.

The Churchill Park campers entering grades 4 through 8 were transported to Newington High School and are now in the air-conditioned cafeteria where they can be picked up at the end of the day, Parks and Recreation said.

Mill Pond campers entering Kindergarten through grade 3 are currently in air conditioned rooms in the Mortensen Community Center and will be going to Mill Pond pool this afternoon.

All Mill Pond campers can be picked up at the Mill Pond Pool area. In the event of inclement thunder and lightning storms, parents will be notified if the pick up location changes.