Water outages can occur unexpectedly and become a real inconvenience. It can hinder daily routines and potentially pose health risks to households and communities. One example of this in South Africa, is the KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa has been facing severe water outages, particularly in the eThekwini Municipality (Durban area). Water outages may occur due to climate variability, growing demand, ageing infrastructure, water pollution, or poor water management. Therefore, being prepared for these situations is essential. Implementing practical solutions and following helpful tips can ensure you and your family stay equipped to handle water outages effectively.
Storing Water Ahead Of Time
Storing water is of course an essential aspect of preparing for water outages. It is important to have access to clean, safe water at all times, especially in emergencies. Storing water ahead of time means that you won’t have to scramble for water when the outage occurs.
Consider Emergency Water Storage Options
While storing water ahead of time is an effective way of preparing for water outages, it might not be enough for an extended outage. In such cases, it is recommended to consider emergency water storage options. Companies like MANZI Water offer refill solutions and reliable containers for storing water. These systems are designed to provide clean and safe water in times of need.
Reduce Your Water Usage
During water outages, it is important to conserve water as much as possible to make your stored water last longer. Monitor water usage to identify areas where conservation is possible, extending your water supply during outages. Simple steps like fixing leaks and minimising unnecessary water usage can significantly impact your resilience during shortages. In this way, you can be more mindful of your water usage and conserve water during a water outage.
Be Prepared for Hygiene Issues
During water outages, hygiene concerns can emerge. It is crucial to be prepared for such eventualities. You can stock up on antibacterial wipes, hand sanitiser, and cleaning supplies. You can also consider purchasing a portable camping shower or solar shower for bathing. These systems can be useful, especially if the water outage lasts for an extended period.
Identify Alternative Water Sources
In some cases, you may be able to obtain water from alternative sources during water outages, for example, you could harvest rainwater or collect water from a nearby stream. However, it is crucial to ensure that any alternative water sources you use are safe for consumption.
Label Your Stored Water Containers
If you have stored water ahead of time, it is important to label your containers with the date that you filled them. This will help you to keep track of the age of the water and ensure that you are consuming safe, fresh water.
Use Water Sparingly
In addition to reducing your overall water usage, you can also be mindful of how much water you use for individual tasks. For example, you can turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and reduce the frequency of watering your lawn or garden.
Prepare Your Plumbing Ahead of Time
Before water outages occur, it is a good idea to check your plumbing for leaks or drips. Fixing any issues ahead of time can help to reduce the amount of water that will be wasted during an outage.
Stock Up On Non-Perishable Food Items
During water outages, it may be difficult to access or cook food as usual. It is a good idea to stock up on non-perishable food items, such as canned goods, and cereal, before the outage occurs. Having a supply of shelf-stable food on hand can help to ensure that you and your family are well-fed during the outage.
Checking With Friends If Their Water Is Out
Checking with friends about the status of their water supply is key, as water outages can be limited to specific suburbs or areas. By contacting friends from other areas, you can gather information about the extent of the water outages. This can help you understand whether the issue is localised to your area or if it is affecting a wider area. Additionally, you may be able to get some water for essentials from your friends.
Conclusion
Don’t be concerned when water outages strike. Take advantage of MANZI Water’s water refill solutions available at over 100 outlets across South Africa in order to be prepared. Contact them today to have water delivered to your doorstep.