Water Saving Tips

CEBU, Philippines - It's sweltering hot these days. It is always important to keep hydrated especially among those whose work requires going outdoors. In a tropical country, like the Philippines, the summer scorch is not anything new. Only that global warming has really made it worse.

A long dry spell is looming. The El Niño Phenomenon, according to Pag-asa, may begin any day now and could hit the highest point in the last quarter of the year. Water supply is again going to be threatened; a noticeable reduction is to be expected.

This is all the more unfortunate, since the hot days normally bring about increased water use. The government has already sounded the alarm by issuing directives, urging households and local government units to undertake water conservation initiatives. It is, indeed, upon everyone to be mindful of our consumption and help save water.

Here are some helpful tips:

Fix those leaks.

Did you know that leaks can use up to five gallons of water a day? Check your water meter for any leaks on your lines. To do so, turn off all faucets and water-consuming appliances. Then look at the needle's position on the dial of the meter and note the time. After 20 minutes, if the needle's position is changed, you may have a leak. Get a plumber right away.

Grow drought-resistant plants.

Drought-resistant landscaping is best for conserving water because you only have to water every now and then.

Turn off the faucet when not in use.

By turning off the water while you're brushing your teeth, or washing your hair, you can save up to 300 gallons of water a month. You can also store water during off-peak hours or at times when fewer people use water.

Take shorter showers.

A four-minute shower uses up to 40 gallons of water. Using a timer or stopwatch is an easy way to keep track.

Avoid flushing waste.

Put tissues, insects and other waste in the trash rather than in the toilet. Flushing them in the toilet bowl consumes more water.

Adjust your washing machine settings.

Washing machines are the second largest water user in a home. To save water with your current machine, wait to do laundry until you have a full load. If you must wash a smaller load, be sure to adjust its water settings.

Use the broom and dustpan.

Hosing off a driveway and sidewalk wastes water and contributes to declines in downstream water quality. Use a broom, dustpan and put it in the garbage can.

Water wisely.

Watering your plants in the morning or evening reduces loss to evaporation, especially during tepid days.

Recycle water.

Whether you're giving your pets fresh water, waiting for the shower water to heat up or washing your fruit and veggies, collect the excess and use it again-like in watering your plants.

Re-route rainwater.

A rain barrel watering system is ideal. You can also install gutters and downspouts, directing the rainwater to trees and shrubs. This saves water and reduces runoff.

As we have heard in the news, government agencies have already set out programs to address the effects of this phenomenon.  Foremost concern is food security because prolonged drought would severely cut down the production of local crops like rice, corn, sugar cane, vegetables and other agricultural products.

The upcoming El Niño phenomenon is a stern reminder for all of us that climate change is a global reality and nations must prepare for it. It is imperative that everyone must do something for climate change adaptation and mitigation. We can do our part, even in small ways. (FREEMAN)