More Hot Weather on the Way?

Severn Trent and Welsh Water are urging us to think about how we use water.

Hot weather and the dry Spring and Summer places increased demands on water network which can impact supplies to customers. The water companies are calling on customers to help by using water sensibly and not wasting any. Where our water comes from has seen low rainfall in recent months with only 60% of long term average between March and May. This combined with the recent, extended amber weather warning for extreme heat in Worcestershire, the water companies are asking customers to be help them keep the water flowing by being mindful of how much they use. During the recent spell of warm weather, the company has already seen demand for water soar to near record levels. This extra demand makes it a challenge to get water through the pipes fast enough and also drains the water quicker from the reservoirs and rivers that supply the water.

To help customers play their part and identify simple ways they can save water around the home and in the garden, the companies are offering handy hints and tips. These include: • Don’t leave the tap running while washing hands or brushing teeth • Take a shower instead of a bath. • Wait until the washing machine and dishwasher are full before putting them on. • Don’t fill the paddling pool to the top – and when you’ve finished, use the water on the plants in the garden. • Don’t use a sprinkler on the lawn to keep it green – the colour will soon come back once it rains.

Businesses are also being asked to make an extra effort not to waste water, particularly caravan parks, golf courses and farms. Even making small reductions in the amount of water a business uses has the potential to make a big difference in helping to keep water flowing this summer, with the added benefit of reducing a business’ water bills and helping it protect the environment.

Ian Christie, Managing Director of Water, Asset Planning and Capital Delivery Services said: “Sometimes though the demand can cause problems on the network which is why we need to ask customers for their help so that we can make sure the water reaches everyone. It’s also essential so that we can help preserve the supplies in our reservoirs and rivers after what has been a dry Spring and early Summer. “Our advice is simple for customers, use the water you need but avoid wasting it.” Minister for Climate Change Julie James said: “ Remember to switch the tap off when brushing your teeth, take showers instead of baths and reconsider your use of garden sprinklers and paddling pools. Our drinking water in Wales is world class, so whilst you are being asked to save water, please make sure you’re keeping hydrated as we stay cool in this sweltering heat.” Minister for Climate Change continued: “These measures may seem small but all actions we take will help keep our water flowing and minimise our impact on the environment”.

Rhodri Williams, Wales Chair of the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), said: “As temperatures soar so does our demand for water and that can put an extra strain on the network, which is why it’s important we all use water as wisely as we can.” “Our research shows that in the last six months two-thirds of us have not made an effort to use less water but there are lots of simple ways to save – whether that’s shaving a couple of minutes off our time in the shower or opting to use a watering can rather than a hosepipe. These simple changes can ease the pressure on the environment and save us money too.” n

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