Drought

Water Conservation Tips Before a Drought

• Replace high water flow plumbing and fixtures with low-flow fixtures.
• Find out how much water you use in your home and how much water can be saved.
• Fix leaking faucets and replace faulty fixtures.
• Operate automatic dishwashers only when they are fully loaded. Use the "light wash" feature, if available.
• Avoid letting the water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving.
• Store drinking water in the refrigerator. Do not let the tap run while you are waiting for water to cool.
• Operate clothes washers only when they are fully loaded or set the water level for the size of your load.
• Repair outdoor irrigation system leaks.
• Reset irrigation timers seasonally.
• Landscape with drought-tolerant/low water use plants.
• Follow state and local water use laws.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips

• Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects, and other waste in the trash rather than the toilet.
• Avoid taking baths—short showers are best—turn on water only to get wet and lather and then again to rinse off.
• Hand wash dishes by filling two containers—one with soapy water and the other with rinse water containing a small amount of chlorine bleach.
• Avoid wasting water waiting for it to get hot. Capture it for other uses such as watering plants. You can also heat it on the stove or in a microwave.
• Avoid using running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave oven.

Outdoor Water Conservation Tips

• Reduce discretionary outdoor water uses (home car washing, pool refills, etc.).
• Capture rain water for later use.
• Use covers to reduce evaporation from pools.
• Redirect pool back wash to landscaping rather than releasing it into the street or alley.
• Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
• Avoid over watering your lawn and water only when needed.
• If your lawn needs watering, water it early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler. Avoid outdoor watering during hottest part of the day.
• Check your sprinkler system and adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered.
• Water in several short sessions rather than one long one, in order for your lawn to better absorb moisture and avoid runoff.
• Avoid leaving hoses unattended. A garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours.

• Know the emergency plans for your area.
• Continue to implement water conservation measures.