How to prepare for a "Harsh" Dry Season (Part 2)

Congruent with our mandate Protecting Health Improving Lives© it is our aim to help families become aware of and prepared for some of the health, social and environmental implications that may arise from this upcoming Dry Season. We encourage you to view and share these strategies with your loved ones as they unfold.

PUBLIC AWARENESS AND GENERAL PLANNING

NATIONAL INSTRUCTIONS

Always observe national restrictions on water use during a drought.

If restricted, for example, do not use water on lawns, wash your cars with hoses, use hoses or other non-essential uses, to help ensure there is enough water for essential uses.

Further information on - WASA Press & WASA Conservation Tips.

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS

Frequent and follow websites, newscasts and other publications or announcements from National Institutions such as WASA, Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service, Police Service of Trinidad and Tobago, Ministry of National Security, Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management, Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service and other relevant sources.

Emergency Services Contact Information .

DEVELOP AN EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

A few examples:

• Decide on a pre-designated safe, easy access meeting place in the event of an emergency if you are separate. Test run if possible.

• Have an offline or printed list of hotline phone numbers on your phone or posted at home or in your vehicle.

• Maintain a simple first aid kit stored in one accessible location known to loved ones

• One gallon of water per person, per day for three days for drinking and sanitation

• Have on hand Emergency Funds.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR WATER STORAGE IN DROUGHT-LIKE CONDITIONS

• If possible, install a Tank of convenient size to available area.

• Consider Rain Water harvesting where possible.

• Cover Rain Water storage containers with meshing to prevent mosquito breeding and child tampering.

• Examine current water storage containers for leaks or cracks.

• Ensure covers of water storage containers still provide a good seal.

• Acquire additional water storage containers with covers if necessary.

• Verify that all pipe lines and plumbing are fully functional.

INDOOR WATER CONSERVATION IN A DROUGHT OR DROUGHT-LIKE CONDITIONS

BATHROOM

• Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects and other small waste in the trash rather than the toilet.

• Take shorter showers. Turn on water only to get wet and lather and then again to rinse off.

KITCHEN

• Avoid using running tap water to thaw meat or frozen foods. Defrost food overnight or thaw in the microwave.

LAUNDRY

• Operate automatic clothes washers only when they are fully loaded or set the water level for the size of your load.

OUTDOOR WATER CONSERVATION IN DROUGHT-LIKE CONDITIONS

GENERAL

• If a pump turns on and off while water is not being used, there is a leak.

• Plant drought resistant grasses, shrubs and trees that do not require frequent water

• Group plants based on water needs.

• Use mulch around the base of plants and trees to retain soil moisture.

• Avoid purchasing and using recreational water toys that require a constant stream of water .

LAWN CARE AND WATER CONSERVATION

• Plant drought resistant lawn varieties.

• Give lawn a higher cut since this: (a) Causes grass roots to grow deeper (b) Shades the root system (c) Holds soil moisture.

• In extreme drought, allow lawn to die in favour of preserving trees and large shrubs since trees and shrubs need years to mature and are less easily replaced whilst lawns re-grow over a shorter period of time.

• Use a broom or blower instead of a hose to clean leaves and other debris from home.

Sourced from Indoor and Out Door Water Conservation