Philly Residents Use A Dumpster Pool To Cool Off At Block Party
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Some Philadelphia residents came up with a unique way to cool off at their block party.
They created a dumpster pool.
One man who helped set it up says, "It was lined with pool noodles and double tarped. It was a 21 and older thing, so we didn't have to worry about any kids wandering in."
He adds, "The public loves it. I've seen so much good feedback and support."
But despite the positive reviews, the city does not want other residents creating their own dumpster pools.
An official for the Department of Licenses and Inspections released this statement in part:
"In view of the City's commitment to public health, safety and basic common sense, we will not issue permits for block party dumpster pools. And while you would think this decision would not require an explanation, three days of press requests have proven otherwise. So, Philly, here's why you shouldn't swim in a receptacle most often used for waste:
• First and foremost, this could reduce the amount of water available should a fire break out in that neighborhood. So if you would like to have water available should a fire break out in your home, don't illegally tap a hydrant
• There is also the potential loss of life by injury due to the hydrant water pushing a small child or even an adult into oncoming traffic.
• Finally, remember that the pressure of the water coming out of the hydrant is so strong, and so powerful, that if opened too quickly or closed too quickly, it could deliver a jolt to the main of sufficient force that could break the main … and many blocks could lose water service until it is repaired."
A next-door neighbor of the dumpster pool creators tells CBSPhilly: "These two crazy people are my next door neighbors. So happy I have two kids that love them so much and they fill their life with so much excitement. Saturday was just one day out of the year for you all, we are so fortunate to have their creativity around us all the time. My daughter spent the greater part of the day on Justyn's shoulders. Out of the corner of my eye I say Jake teasing and playing with my kids to make sure they were having a good time. There was diversity of people that were present to do one thing.... HAVE A GOOD TIME. It was at the expense of NO ONE. Nothing but joy that day. Kudos to these two and their whole crew that helped. The sculls are still talking about it. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"
"We also do a free haunted house for the kids at Halloween. so we try to give back to the neighborhood as much as possible," Justyn says.
