In Astana Botanical Garden, children have been spotted bathing in fountains despite warning signs. The signs indicate that bathing is prohibited due to the risk of electric shock.
WHAT HAPPENED
Information is spreading on social media that children are entering fountain basins and bathing in the water, and in some cases parents are nearby and even filming the event. The images being circulated show warning signs prohibiting bathing installed near the fountains.
The information on the signs is given in Kazakh and Russian. The warning states that bathing is forbidden because there is a danger of electric shock, and the voltage is also noted as U=380V. Furthermore, it is reported that the water is treated with chemicals.
WHY EXPERTS ARE WARNING ABOUT THE DANGER
As noted by the Astana city administration, fountains are elements of urban landscaping intended for decorative purposes and air humidification.
They are not equipped with water filtration and purification systems. For this reason, the water in the basins quickly becomes contaminated with rubbish, leaves, dust, and insects.
Additionally, such behaviour involves serious risks. Uneven surfaces, decorative elements, pipelines, and pumps can cause falls and mechanical injuries. The fountains are equipped with lighting and other electrical components, which creates a risk of electric shock.
Experts urged parents to carefully supervise their children and pay attention to where they are and what they are doing.
