In the event of water crisis

To save water

• Fit your taps with water saving aerator devices;
• Check that there are no leaks. If the metre still goes around even with the taps turned off, call in a specialized firm to check for faults or leaks from pipes and sanitary ware;
• Do not leave water running from the tap unnecessarily, for example for brushing your teeth or shaving, but only turn it on when needed;
• Do not use running water to wash fruit and vegetables: it’s enough to leave them to soak with a pinch of bicarbonate;
• Use the water again where possible: for example water left over from cooking pasta can be used to clean greasy saucepans, and water used to wash fruit and vegetables can be used to water plants and flowers;
• Use washing machines and dishwashers at night time and only if full up, when you can and remember to use the economy programme if there are few clothes or dishes to wash;
• Use dual-flushes for toilets this will save about 60% of the water normally used with flushes at high constant volume;
• Have a shower rather than a bath: it’s quicker and reduces water used by a third;
• Turn the water off from the mains when you’re on holidays or away from home for long periods;
• Do not use drinking water to wash your car.

If water supply is temporarily cut off

• Before the water is cut off, put away a minimum reserve of water for bathroom and kitchen use and get in a supply of plastic plates, cutlery and mugs as well as cotton wool and methylated spirits;
• Switch off the electric boiler and switch it back on when the electricity has come back again to avoid damaging the heating resistors;
• Do not use the washing machine, dishwasher and boiler immediately after the water supply returns, until everything is back to normal, as the water could be dark.