Get Ready to Conserve Water in Killeen during Summer Months

It happens every year: residents of Killeen are called upon to make conservation efforts from May 1 through September 30. As the summer progresses, restrictions will be more stringent.

According to Killeen PIO Alison Walker, here are ways to reduce daily water usage:

• Repair leaky faucets, fixtures and pipes.
• Turn water off while washing dishes, brushing teeth or shaving.
• Scrape dishes instead of rinsing before placing them in the dishwasher.
• Rinse produce in a pan of water then reuse remaining water on household plants.
• Check toilets for leaks by adding food coloring to the tank; if color appears in the bowl, you have a leak.
• Take showers instead of baths; install low-flow shower heads.
• Wash only full loads of laundry when possible, or use the lowest water level setting for light or partial loads.
• Use sprinklers that produce large drops of water instead of mist.
• Set sprinkler systems to water 1 inch every 5 days.
• Adjust sprinkler heads that are spraying sidewalks, driveways or streets.
• Use drip irrigation for flower beds, shrubs and trees.
• Condition soil with mulch or compost to retain moisture.
• Set lawnmower on higher setting; taller grass retains more moisture.
• Use a bucket of water to wash vehicles; only turn on hose for rinsing.

More information about the water conservation plan and why you are required to do it, the city’s website, www.killeentexas.gov/wcp.

We know not everyone loves the low-flow shower heads...