Help save water this summer

THE Western Cape is a winter rainfall region with dry summers. For the past three seasons there has been a prolonged and lower-than-normal rainfall which has caused water-stressed conditions in some areas across the Western Cape.

As we are fast approaching the end of rainy season, it’s a concern that the rains that fell in our catchments during the winter season did not make much impact as water levels in the province improved slightly. Spring/summer seasons in particular are the periods where we experience an increase in volume of domestic water usage across the province. This challenge is attributed to the rise in temperatures and less rainfall.

Communities tend to mitigate the spring/summer scorching sun by using their swimming pools. Those who do not have pools often use hosepipes as a means of cooling themselves. In some communities one often sees children playing in the streets with hosepipes without realising that they are wasting water. Given the prevailing drought, these activities cannot be left uncontrolled as they lead to severe wastage.

Understandably, the beginning of these seasons will from time to time lead to severe hot weather conditions. However, as government we appeal to communities to exercise extra caution when using water during such seasons. To conserve water, communities are encouraged to prepare for these seasons in advance.

The department calls on all users to make lifestyle changes to reduce water consumption to stretch the water to last beyond these seasons. MALUSI RAYI Communications: Department of Water and Sanitation Western Cape

PICTURE: PHANDO JIKELO HOT HABITS: In some communities children are often seen playing with hosepipes without realising water is being wasted, the writer says.