Cornwall's water provider warns of possible restrictions if dry spell continues

Cornwall's water provider says it might have to bring in formal restrictions if high demand and the dry weather continue.

South West Water's website shows reservoir levels were at 52.6% for the week ending 31st July.

It is urging people to think carefully about their usage and avoid stuff like hosepipes.

In a statement, South West Water said: "We continue to experience an unprecedented and prolonged period of hot and dry weather, alongside extremely high levels of demand.

"We are sharing water saving tips and advice with customers and urging everyone to think carefully about their water usage and to avoid non-essential water use, such as using a hosepipe in the garden and for washing cars.

"If the exceptional levels of demand and sustained dry weather continues we may have to make the difficult decision to introduce formal restrictions over the coming weeks to limit the pressure on resources and to protect the environment.

"We continue to review our position and will keep customers and communities fully informed via our website, social media channels as well as through the media".

Water Saving Tips

South West Water has shared the following tips on how to save water, as it warns of possible restrictions.

Advice for gardeners:

• Use a water butt to collect rainwater – it could fill up with water for free 300 times a year

• Use a watering can instead of a hosepipe

• It's best to water plants early in the morning, or in the evening, when it will take longer for it to evaporate

• If there is a dry spell, your lawn will not look as lush but it will recover when it rains again. If it needs mowing, set your lawnmower to cut higher and leave clippings where they fall to act as mulch

Top tips for saving water in the home:

• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth

• Keep a jug of water in the fridge so you don’t have to run your tap cold

• Use a bowl for washing up / rinsing fruit and veg – then use this water for plants

• Have a shower instead of a bath

• Only use your dishwasher or washing machine when you have a full load (this will save money on your energy bills too)

• Only fill the kettle with as much water as you need (this will save energy too)

Customers can find more information about this by visiting South West Water's website and searching for '5 litre challenge'.

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• water restrictions
• drought
• south west water