Sumter has 5 free spray parks to help stay cool in the heat

Summer is hot in the South, but Sumter offers five spray parks to take the kiddos to cool off.

These spray parks open Memorial Day weekend, and all are free:

- Crosswell Park, corner of Lafayette Drive and Yeadon Street;

- North HOPE Park, 904 N. Main St.;

- South Sumter Park, corner of South Sumter and Atlantic streets;

- Birnie HOPE Park, 210 S. Purdy St.; and

- Palmetto Park, off Theatre Drive, between the tennis center and ball fields.

Just place your hand on the hand print, and the water will flow. Each park offers playgrounds and green spaces.

For more information, call (803) 436-2640.