Updated July 2023
This information is being provided to increase awareness of drought and water restriction conditions and to take action to minimize negative impacts during this summer's dry season.What Causes Drought Conditions?
A drought can occur whenever there is insufficient rain or snowfall over an extended period of time, resulting in water shortage for communities and environment
What are the Impacts of Drought?
Drought conditions can impact communities and individuals by reducing the amount of water available for household and business uses. Under extreme conditions, water systems could run out of potable water and be unable to meet fire suppression requirements. Drought can also impact water quality from surface sources that can reduce the safety of the treated water.
How Can I help Conserve Water?
• Fix leaky faucets and taps promptly. A dripping tap can waste up to 20 litres or more per day! Report any water leaks noted in your home, and around your community.
• Do not let the water run continuously when shaving, brushing teeth, washing your face or hand-washing dishes.
• Take shorter showers and use a water-conserving showerhead or a showerhead with a stop button to pause water flow during lathering. Take quick showers rather than baths.
• Create a low-flow toilet by displacing water in the tank reservoir. A water-filled one-litre plastic milk jug works well. Be sure to place them so that they do not interfere with the flushing mechanism.
• Fill a water jug and refrigerate for cold water rather than letting the cold water tap run.
• Run the dishwasher and laundry machines only with full loads. Use the shortest wash and rinse cycles and the lowest water level setting possible. Avoid the permanent press cycle.
• Use a bucket when washing your car, and wash and rinse sections individually. During severe restrictions, washing cars should be discouraged.
• Use soaker hoses and drip irrigation for garden watering, which are more efficient than spray. Do not water in the heat of the day. Early morning or evening watering provides the most water for your plants. Lawns should not be watered in severe drought.
• Using a pool cover will minimize loss due to evaporation. Filling of pools, hot tubs or fountains may be restricted or banned during severe drought.
