MYSTIC WATER CUSTOMERS ASKED TO CURTAIL WATER USE

Aquarion Water Co., which supplies water to customers in Mystic and 50 other cities and towns around the state, asked its customers on Thursday to conserve water and reduce non-essential outdoor water use.

The company said the request was due to the lack of significant rainfall, and because of the state Department of Public Health’s advisory for water conservation.

Connecticut is experiencing conditions ranging from “abnormally dry” to “moderate drought” due to an extended dry spell, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

With below-average rainfall and extremely high water demand compared to the same period last year, Aquarion’s reservoirs and wells are below normal capacity, the company said in a news release.

As a result, Aquarion is requesting customers reduce outdoor water use by limiting lawn irrigation to a maximum of twice a week (customers can select any two days) if they are using an irrigation system or hose-end sprinkler.

Use of a hand-held hose for watering is allowed at any time, the company said.

Aquarion recommends ways to use water more efficiently, while helping conservation efforts:

Allow grass to grow longer; taller grass is healthier and requires less water

Use brooms or blowers instead of water to clean decks, driveways and sidewalks

Don’t wash cars or boats with a hose

Shut off ornamental water displays

Do not leave water running while washing hands, shaving or brushing teeth Take shorter showers Hand-wash dishes in a basin, not under running water

Repair leaks in plumbing and fixtures

Visit www.aquarionwater.com/ conserve for additional water conservation tips.

Based in Bridgeport, Aquarion serves more than 625,000 customers in Connecticut, as well as communities in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.