If you haven’t heard about the drought that has hit most of the United States, chances are you’ve been living under a rock. If you are living under a rock, we understand, it’s probably cooler under there anyway. The major drought has affected over 48 US states, most of them being declared disaster areas. Crops have been hit hard, driving produce prices higher. Many state and local governments are suggesting or even mandating that residents conserve water.
“Under a water conservation ordinance now in effect in Marion County, Ind., which includes Indianapolis, residents can be fined $100 for a first violation and $2,500 per day for a fourth violation if they:
•Sprinkle, water or irrigate grass.
•Wash vehicles, sidewalks or driveways.
•Fill empty swimming pools.
•Install new landscaping.” - USA TODAY
So if you haven’t resorted to living under a rock here are some tips that can help you conserve water during extreme heat:
1. Cut down on your shower time and avoid taking baths.
2. Remember to turn off the water while brushing your teeth or washing your face
3. Use the “energy saver” settings on your appliances that use water.
4. Only wash full loads of clothes.
5. Examine faucets, pipes, and hoses for leaks and replace any leaking fixtures.
6. Buy bottled water and store it.
7. Do not waste water waiting for it to get hot, capture it in a container and use it for watering plants or cooking.
8. Wash dishes by hand instead of using the dishwasher, they use about 14 gallons per load.
9. Don’t over-water your lawn. It only needs to be watered every 5 to 7 days in the summer.
10. Don’t fertilize your lawn during a drought because it burns the grass.
Most importantly, never put water down a drain that can be used for something else!
