Northumbrian Water is doing all it can to keep water flowing for its customers as the warm and dry weather continues.
The water company, which provides drinking and waste water services to 2.7 million people in the major population centres of Tyneside, Wearside and Teesside as well as the large rural areas of Northumberland and County Durham, is asking its customers to help out where they can by using water wisely and thinking about the amount they are using in the home and garden.
The company is continuing to monitor supplies closely, and has put additional resources in place to manage the increase in demand seen in recent days.
An extra 120 mega litres per day is being added to the Northumbrian Water network at present on average – that’s the equivalent of an Olympic-sized swimming pool every 30 minutes.
Northumbrian Water operates 22 reservoirs across its supply area, ranging in size from the largest man-made reservoir in north-west Europe, Kielder Water, to smaller ones like Hisehope and Smiddy Shaw located on Muggleswick Common in County Durham.
Martin Lunn, Head of Technical Strategy for Northumbrian Water said: “Our water resources remain healthy for this time of year, and despite the increase in demand we are not seeking to implement a hosepipe ban for our supply area.
“Although our surface reservoir and groundwater levels are where they should be, the challenge we are facing is treating the water and getting it out to customers in time to meet the increase in demand. Our people are working around the clock to ensure we can produce and deliver these increased volumes.
“We’re asking customers to help us out by thinking about how they can save water around the home and garden so that supplies last as long as possible. Even small changes like not leaving taps running and not watering your lawns can make a big difference. We’d like to thank everyone for doing their bit to save water at this time.”
Northumbrian Water is also encouraging customers to keep an eye out for burst pipes and leaks across the region caused by the high temperatures. Warmer weather causes ground movement which can lead to burst pipes. To get these fixed as quickly possible and avoid water being wasted customers can report them on the leak line - 0800 393 084.
Customers are also being reminded to stay safe around water, as there are dangers that can kill in reservoirs, lakes, rivers, canals, open water and the sea. Reservoirs in particular are operational sites which contain machinery, strong underwater currents, varying depths and extremely cold water, which makes them unsuitable for swimming and paddling.
Top tips for saving water –
• Water plants in the evening to retain moisture in the soil.
• Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth and save 6 litres of water each time.
• Shower rather than bath and save 10 litres every time.
• Take shorter showers (aim for four minutes per day) – this can save up to 17 litres per day
• Use full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine.
• Use a bucket rather than a hose to wash the car.
• Use a bowl when hand washing dishes 7 litres every time
• Replace washers on dripping taps - they can waste up to 26 litres of water in 24 hours - that's enough for a shower.