We will be more unified in our message. Most of the larger water systems in Kitsap County have drought plans that include three stages of severity. After the advisory stage comes a voluntary stage, in which people are asked to take certain steps to save water. If the drought becomes more severe, mandatory restrictions may be imposed with fines for violators. We call those peak-demand days.
Hot weather causes people to water their yards more, which can overtax a water system's capacity.
People committed to keeping their yards green should water late in the evening or early in the morning, Fohn said. By using common-sense measures around the house, families can reduce their water usage by 10 percent to 15 percent, she said. Washington Department of Ecology advises the owners of private wells to monitor their water systems. If the water level begins to drop, families should cut back on usage. In some cases, it may be necessary to lower the pump inside the well.