Do your bit to beat the drought

Don’t take water for granted! That’s the message from Environment Officers this year.

The South East of England is experiencing one of the worst droughts in 100 years and seven water companies, including Three Valleys Water which covers the Hertsmere area, have hosepipe bans in place.

In the space of 50 years our water consumption has doubled, so what does the drought mean for you? And what top tips can you employ to help beat it?

• Take a shower instead of a bath: A bath uses 85 litres of water, while a quick shower uses 35;
• Turn the tap off when brushing your teeth or shaving - this can save up to 14 litres of water each time you brush;
• Use dishwashers and washing machines only when they are full and on the economy wash;
• Wash vegetables in a bowl rather than under a running tap and use the leftovers for watering your garden;
• Don’t flush the loo if you don’t need to;
• If you have an old toilet cistern, put a water saving device, such as a Three Valleys Water hippo, which reduces the amount of water used in each flush;
• Keep a jug of ice cold water on the go in the fridge, this avoids needing to run the tap until the water gets cold each time you want a drink;
• Use a sponge and bucket to wash your car or take your car to a commercial car wash;
• Stop using your hosepipe connected to a tap to water your garden or wash your car.
• Water plants during the evening and morning to cut down on evaporation.

There are more tips and advice at www.waterinthesoutheast.com, www.3valleys.co.uk, or www.thameswater.co.uk