Families find ways to beat the heat on Father’s Day in Atlanta

ATLANTA — On Father’s Day, many families find ways to beat the heat while celebrating the most important men in their lives.

Atlanta’s Grant Park, in particular, has no shortage of families enjoying the expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

But the heat keeps many of these people away from the pool.

For example, 5-year-old Stella Middlebrooks and her mother are taking a walk but plan to treat her father to a movie later.

“Me, my mom and my dad are probably going to go to the movie to see Inside Out 2,” she said.

For many members of the community, such as young children and the elderly, these temperatures can pose dangerous health risks,

“If you see shade, go to the shade, but if you don’t see any. Drink lots and lots of water,” she said.

Summer Davidson is out with two little ones today at the playground, trying to get some physical activity in before the mercury rises.

“It’s very hot. We’re just trying to stay in the shade. Drink lots of water and watch more movies than usual,” Davidson said.

For first-time dad Clayton Burnett, who’s heading out for a walk with his new baby Rilen, the plan is to spend the rest of the day enjoying the air conditioning.

“My wife made a delicious breakfast. I took the baby for a walk while he naps. Then we’ll go home, sit in the air conditioning and go from there,” Burnett said.

Health experts advise avoiding peak sunlight hours of the day and staying hydrated during heat waves.