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Our weekly news column bringing the most current, non-biased health
information to the consumer. |
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July 22, 2008 |
A Publication of QVHD |
Every Little Drip Counts!
By: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH,
Deputy Director QVHD
Although it seems like we
had a lot of rain this spring, groundwater levels can become depleted
very quickly in the summer months, especially if we have little rain. No
one can accurately predict what the long term forecast will bring. While
most often, water conservation is a recommendation during the dry
months, severe shortages can lead to State imposed mandatory water
conservation actions. You should learn how you can conserve water in the
event of a dry summer. This is especially important if your water supply
is a private well.
Actions to conserve water:
• Any activity with the water running wastes water. For example, a
shower with water running uses 25 gallons, while a wet down, soap up and
rinse uses only 9 gallons. Brushing teeth with the tap running uses 10
gallons, while wetting brush, shutting off water and a brief rinse uses
only ½ gallon.
• A bath with a full tub uses 35 gallons. A tub ½ full uses 15 gallons.
• Automatic dishwashing, a full cycle, uses twice as much water as a
short cycle uses. Washing machines full cycle, top water level uses
twice as much as a short cycle, middle water level.
• Outdoor watering uses 10 gallons per minute. The best conservation is
to minimize watering. Do critical areas only. (Incidentally, sidewalks
don't need water!) Also, avoid watering during sunny hours. The water is
quickly evaporated and doesn't reach the root systems as well as
watering in early morning or evening hours. Be sure you shut off your
garden hose, too!
• Repairing leaky faucets and toilets can save a tremendous amount of
water (up to 170 gallons in 24 hours!)
• Wash vegetables in a pan of water, rather than with the water running.
• Don't leave the water running when you wash your hands.
• Don't leave the water running when you hand wash dishes. Use a
dishpan.
Heed the warnings as they are issued over the next several months.
Private wells risk running dry. People on public water will risk fines.
Everyone must do their part to conserve water when it is asked of us.
For free information on additional conservation methods, District
residents can call QVHD, 248-4528 or request via email,
info@qvhd.org.
| An Ounce of Prevention is a
publication of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District, located at
1151 Hartford Turnpike, North Haven, CT 06473. Telephone:
248-4528. An Ounce of Prevention is
written by V. Deborah Culligan. The articles are published in the following local newspapers, The Advisor &
Beth-Wood News.
The content is provided as health education and
information to help you make health decisions. It is not intended to
be legal or medical advice, or substitute for recommendations made
by your health care provider. Address all comments to the district
office. |
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