View source for Water Conservation Tips Before a Drought

{{Crisis Communication
|Crisis Communication Type=Website
|Source=https://www.ready.gov/drought#before
|Publishing Organisation=U.S. Department of Homeland Security
|Event type=Drought, Heatwave
|Disaster Management Phase=Before
|Language=English
|Content=<big>''The best way to prepare for a drought is to conserve water.''
''Make conserving water a part of your daily life''</big>


<big>'''Indoor Water Conservation Tips Before a Drought'''</big>k


'''GENERAL'''

* Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it. 
** For example, use it to water your indoor plants or garden.
* Check all plumbing for leaks.
* Retrofit all household faucets by installing aerators with flow restrictors.
* Insulate your water pipes to reduce heat loss and prevent them from breaking.
* Install a water-softening system only when the minerals in the water would damage your pipes. 
* Choose appliances that are more energy and water efficient.


'''BATHROOM'''

* Consider purchasing a low-volume toilet that uses less than half the water of older models.
* Install a toilet displacement device to cut down on the amount of water needed to flush
* Replace your showerhead with an ultra-low-flow version.


'''KITCHEN'''
* Instead of using the garbage disposal, throw food in the garbage or start a compost pile to dispose it.



<big>'''Outdoor Water Conservation Tips Before a Drought'''</big>


'''GENERAL'''

* If you have a well pump, check it periodically.
* Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees. 
* Group plants together based on similar water needs.
* Don't install ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless they use re-circulated water.
* Consider rainwater harvesting where practical.
* Contact your local water provider for information and assistance.


'''LAWN CARE'''
* Position sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not on paved areas.
* Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to be sure they operate properly.
* Raise the lawn mower blade to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper and holds soil moisture.
* Plant drought-resistant lawn seed. 
* Don't over-fertilize your lawn. 
** Applying fertilizer increases the need for water.
** Apply fertilizers that contain slow-release, water-insoluble forms of nitrogen.
* Choose a water-efficient irrigation system such as drip irrigation for your trees, shrubs and flowers.
* Water manually in fall and winter only if needed.
* Use mulch around trees and plants to retain moisture in the soil. 
** Mulch also helps control weeds that compete with plants for water.
* Check with your local water agency to see if there is a rebate available for the purchase of a smart controller.


'''POOL'''
* Install a water-saving pool filter. 
* Cover pools and spas to reduce water evaporation.



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