Surrey and Hampshire could get "pinged" during hot weather if water demand spikes
It follows a soar in use last year during record high temperatures
Surrey and Hampshire's water supplier says it will issue hot weather alerts if there is a spike in water use this Summer.
South East Water has told its customers it is part of preparations for warm, dry weather - following record high temperatures and dry weather last Spring and Summer which led to "unprecedented demand".
It says if this happens again it could ask people to reduce water use for short periods, so they can get more water to everyone's homes.
It will alert people via text, email, on its website or through social media, .
The company will also ramp up treatment works to full capacity to meet demand.
It has issued tips on how to cut back on water use - such as using a bucket and sponge instead of a hosepipe to clean cars, and re-using paddling pool water.
For the latest information about demand in your area visit www.southeastwater.co.uk/savewaterinthesun