What Safety Precautions Should Be Taken for Droughts?
Some important safety precautions to take during a drought include water conservation and home preparedness. Droughts can create a number of hazards, some of which can even be deadly.
Water conservation is one of the most obvious precautions to take during a drought. If a city is enforcing water restrictions, residents should contact their public works department to find out whether watering lawns and gardens is allowed. In many instances, watering cans and hoses are allowed, but sprinklers are not. Homeowners should also try to cut down on wasted water around the house. Collecting bath or shower water that would otherwise run down the drain when adjusting the water temperature is a good place to start. A bucket, watering can or some other container can be used to collect shower water, which can then be used for the lawn or garden.
Droughts are typically accompanied by extreme heat, so precautions should be taken around the home to stay cool. Air conditioner filters should be checked to make sure they’re not clogged or dirty. Window units should be placed in the shade to ensure they operate effectively. Doors and windows can be insulated using caulk and weather stripping. The attic should be well ventilated, which can help the floors below stay cooler. Curtains can be drawn and the shades closed during the day to keep indoor temperatures cooler. Using a fan instead of an air conditioner at night uses far less electricity.
