Some tips on saving water

During droughts or other emergencies, you may be asked to help by conserving water. You'll be surprised at how much you can save without hardship right in your own home. Water conservation is a good way of life. Let's practice it together:

• Showers can take less water than baths, but not if you spend 10 to 20 minutes in the shower. Since most showers pour out between 5 to 10 gallons per minute, that can add up in a hurry. It's more a matter of self-control. A partially filled tub or a shorter shower will no doubt use less water. Time yourself next time, the odds are you really don't need to stand that that long nor do you need the shower running at full, hot blast.
  
• When shaving and brushing our teeth, try not to leave the water running. Run as much as you need, then turn off the tap until you need some more. It adds up to a whale-of-a-lot of wasted water.
  
• A little leak can go a long way. Just a slow drip can waste up to 15 to 20 gallons a day! Most leaks are caused by worn washers. Check all the faucets once a year.
  
• Many washing machines use 40 gallons of water for a load whether you have them stuffed full or with only a couple of socks. Save up for a full load and make your water work more efficiently. Or remember to set your machine for a lesser load if it can be adjusted.
  
• Wash your car with a bucket of soapy water and use a nozzle to stop the flow of water from the hose between rinses.
  
• Clean driveways and sidewalks with a broom instead of a hose.
  
• Check for leaks in outdoor faucets, pipes and hoses.