WASA is urging its customers to practice wise indoor and outdoor water use. In light of the unusually dry conditions that persist throughout the Washington metropolitan, a drought watch has been issued by the Drought Coordinating Committee of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG).

While the demand for water has increased, WASA is not experiencing water shortages but to be good stewards of our resources smart water usage is highly advised. Limiting water use during the drought watch will ensure that water supplies will remain adequate.

Current forecasts indicate that the unusual period of dry weather is likely to continue throughout the metropolitan Washington region. Meanwhile, COG officials do not anticipate reaching warning or emergency drought stages for utilities that get their water from the Potomac River.

WASA offers wise water tips to customers to help conserve water:

• Always water lawns and gardens during early morning or late evening hours, when temperatures are cooler, to minimize evaporation.

• Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered, not the house, sidewalk or street.

• Do not use a hose to clean driveways or sidewalks. Use a broom to wash outside areas.

• Consider using a commercial car wash that recycles water. If you wash your own car, use a pail of soapy water and rinse it off with a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle.

For more water-saving tips, visit the WASA website, www.dcwasa.com. The Washington Council of Governments’ website has additional information on the regional consequences of the drought.