${gotBlog.title}

Drinking Water Week -- May 4-10, 2008

Posted by North Shore Health Department on May 8, 2008

Environmental Health

The U.S. has one of the safest public water supplies in the world and Drinking Water Week provides a good opportunity for appreciation of that fact.  Instead, most Americans probably take clean tap water for granted and rarely give it much thought -- except when they don't have it!  However, since less than 1% of the earth's water is suitable for drinking, it is increasingly important for everyone to do what they can to preserve a clean water supply. 

Take a moment to consider all that tap water delivers for us:

• Public health protection -- Worldwide, three million people die every year from preventable waterborne disease.  Our water system allows us to drink from virtually any public tap with a high assurance of safety.
• Fire protection -- A well maintained water system is critical in protecting our communities from the ever present threat of fire.
• Support for the economy -- Businesses or housing developments do not succeed without a safe and sustainable water supply.
• The overall quality of life in the U.S. -- Any measure of a successful society -- low mortality rates, economic diversity, productivity, and public safety -- is in some way related to access to safe water.

Individuals can do many things to help ensure the sustainability of a reliable water supply.

• First and foremost, recognize what a valuable resource clean water is and take steps to protect and conserve it.
• Be thoughtful in your use of water and don't waste it.
• Ask yourself if bottled water is necessary and consider its negative environmental effects.
• Do not flush unused medications down the toilet or sink.
• Dispose of hazardous materials and pet waste properly.
• Reduce or do not use pesticides and fertilizers on your lawn.
• Do not water your lawn excessively.
• Repair leaky faucets and pipes and install water-efficient appliances.
• Run the dishwasher and washing machine fully loaded only.
• Place rain barrels beneath your downspouts and plant a rain garden.
• Become an informed advocate for clean water and set a good example.

Visit the following websites to learn more about the importance of preserving and conserving clean water:

http://www.epa.gov/safewater/wot/pdfs/book_waterontap_full.pdf          http://awwa.org          http://www.dnr.wi.gov