Learn How to Mitigate the Impacts of Drought

Share these tips with your family, friends and community!

Title: Are You Prepared For A Drought?

California is now on its second dry year in a row. All across our state, Californians are asking how they can help address the drought and there are already millions of our friends and neighbors who have stepped up to make changes. Following the simple tips below can help save water — and money too!

Find ways to conserve water indoors: Develop better water saving habits in the bathroom. Take shorter showers! Turn on the water to get wet and then turn the water off to lather; finally turn the water on to rinse. Prevent water from running while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving.

Instead of pouring water down the drain, find ways to use it! For example, watering your indoor plants or gardens. Use less water in the kitchen. Opt for the “light wash” function on your dishwasher. If hand washing, use two containers — one with soapy water and other with rinse water.

Use a compost pile as an alternate for the kitchen sink disposal which requires lots of water. Make sure washers are fully loaded or set the water level correctly for the size of your load. Repair leaks with washers or by having a plumber come inspect your faucets, showers and toilets.

Yes, you can conserve water outdoors! Only water your lawn when it is needed and ensure sprinklers are adjusted to only water laws. Water in several short sessions instead of one longer one to allow your lawn to better absorb moisture. If heavy rain occurs, you will not need to water your lawn for about two weeks. Avoid using water to clean driveways, instead use brooms or blowers. Consider planting drough-tolerant grassess and plants to reduce water usage.

To learn more ways to conserve water, visit

ready.gov/drought