North Attleborough has implemented a Stage 2 Water Restriction, prohibiting all non-essential outdoor water use.
On Wednesday, July 1, the North Attleborough Board of Public Works voted to implement a Stage 2 Water Restriction effective immediately and until further notice. As part of this restriction, all non-essential water use is banned. Sprinklers and all other irrigation systems are prohibited until further notice. Residents and businesses should turn off their irrigation systems until these restrictions are lifted.
Please note that watering flowers and ornamental plants is allowed only with a watering can, hand-held hose or drip irrigation. Residents are advised to water after 5 p.m. or before 9 a.m.
Residents are also encouraged to limit water use and preserve water levels by doing the following:
· Reduce shower length and consider using a timer (avoid baths)
· Only run the dishwasher or washing machines when there is a full load (avoid handwashing)
· Avoid letting water run while brushing and shaving.
· Fix any toilet or faucet leaks immediately.
· Use rain barrels to collect rainwater for watering flowers, vegetables and other plants.
· Do not fill pools at this time.
· Limit the installation of new landscapes.
· If you need to wash your car, go to a car wash facility instead of using your hose, as most facilities recycle their water
“This is a precautionary measure to address declining water levels ahead of the holiday weekend, when ongoing drought conditions can increase the risk of fires,” Department of Public Works Director Mark Hollowell said. “Implementing these restrictions now will help protect our water supply, prevent conditions from worsening, and maintain adequate water levels in our storage tanks so the Fire Department has the resources it needs to respond to emergencies throughout town.”
Added Fire Chief Christopher Coleman, “Every Fourth of July, local fire departments respond to fires caused by fireworks, as even small sparks from sparklers can ignite dry grass, leaves, and other vegetation. The combination of extreme heat, ongoing drought conditions, and the use of personal fireworks significantly increases the risk of fires and wildfires. We urge all residents to leave fireworks to the professionals and attend a licensed public display to help keep our community safe.”
For more information about drought safety and how to conserve water, visit the Massachusetts Water Conservation website.