Arkansas Department of Health Urges Public to Conserve Water

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- The Arkansas Department of Health says dry conditions and high temperatures have resulted in public water systems in the state experiencing very high water demands.

The department is now urging compliance with water conservation requests made by public water systems during these summertime peak water demand periods.  

"Wise use of water by individual customers can make a dramatic difference in whether shortages are experienced," says Jeff Stone, director of the Engineering section at ADH.

The department is offering the following suggestions:

-Comply with water conservation guidelines that your water system may request or require such as watering on alternate days.
-Water your lawn only when it needs it.  Deep soak the lawn rather than sprinkling lightly which tends to evaporate quickly.
-Water during the cool part of the day such as early morning.
-Don't waste water on gutters, driveways, and sidewalks.
-Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants. Mulch will hold moisture longer and slow evaporation.
-Use automatic dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
-Don't let the faucet run when cleaning vegetables or washing dishes. Rinse them in a stoppered sink or pan of clean water.
-Don't let the water continuously run when brushing your teeth or shaving.
-Keep a bottle of drinking water in the refrigerator.  Running tap water to cool it off for drinking is wasteful.
-Check faucets, pipes, and toilets for drips or leaks.
-Use a broom to clean sidewalks-not a hose.
-Take a quick shower instead of a big bath.
-Install water-saving showerheads or flow restrictors.

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