Steps that can be taken at home to prevent water contamination and conserve water.

1. Water is one of the most important resources we have. We need a lot of
it to perform everyday tasks at home, such as cooking, bathing and cleaning.
We tend to take the water supply for granted, however, and the way we use
water can put a strain on the supply. Using too much or introducing harmful
substances into water are two primary culprits. You’ll find some tips below
for reducing your home water consumption, as well as information for
helping prevent contamination of the world’s water supply.
www.hydra-stop.com
A HOMEOWNER’S
GUIDE TO WATER
PREVENTING WATER CONTAMINATION AT HOME
Just as the water we use in our homes comes to us from natural resources, it returns to
these sources eventually. Here are some ways to help ensure that the water your home uses
returns to the source free from contaminants that can damage the ecosystem.
Do not pour medications down the
drain or flush them down the toilet.
Instead, find out where you can safely
dispose of medications and drugs in
your community.
Do not pour household chemicals
or cleansers down your sink or toilet.
Many communities have designated
disposal stations for these potentially
harmful substances.
If your home has a garbage disposal, don’t
use it. Instead, compost solid food waste
or dispose of it in your regular garbage.
Never flush any other type of solid waste
such as used tissues down the toilet.
Don’t dispose of cooking grease or used
oil in your kitchen sink. Collect it in a jar
until the jar is full, then dispose of the
solidified grease.
CONSERVING WATER AT HOME
The average home uses hundreds of gallons of water each day, but not
all of it is necessary. Here are some ways to reduce your water use and
lessen the strain on our natural resources.
If it’s legal in your area, use a rain barrel
to collect water for use in your garden
rather than using a hose.
Don’t run your washing machine or
dishwasher unless you have a full load.
Check your plumbing for leaks regularly
and fix any you find as soon as possible.
Place a brick in your toilet tank or install
a low-flow fixture to use less water.
Use high-efficiency appliances and
fixtures such as shower heads.
Plant native plants in your garden
because they require less watering.
Cover your swimming pool when not in
use to prevent evaporation.
Water your lawn or garden early in the
morning to prevent evaporation.
Don’t leave the faucet running when
brushing your teeth.
Scrape your dishes before loading
them into the dishwasher instead
of rinsing them.