It's United Nations World Water Day March 22nd. This year's theme is 'Water for peace'
Waipā District Council continues to be in a Restricted Rural Fire Season and will not be issuing any urban or rural fire permits as hot, dry conditions continue. No fire permits have been issued since last Friday and the restriction on fire permits will continue until conditions ease.
Principal Rural Fire Officer Chuck Davis said the fire risk is too high and urges residents to take note of the restrictions in place.
“In these conditions, fires can get out of hand rapidly and with no substantial rain forecast until the weekend the risk increases every day. When we do get some rain, we will determine whether it is enough to lift the total restriction, but in the meantime, we do not want to see any fires in our district.”
Once the current dry conditions ease, Council will continue to issue fire permits on a case by case basis.
The lack of rain has also triggered water restrictions across Waipa as reservoir levels drop.
Council's Asset Management Team Leader Tony Hale says Waipā District is currently at Water Alert Level 3 and with little rain forecast, is reminding residents to watch their water consumption.
“Since moving to Water Alert Level 3, Te Awamutu residents have reduced their water consumption by 500,000 litres a day. This means we have been able to preserve some water at our storage dam but it is important that people continue to restrict their water use.”
“Every drop really does count at this time of year. Water Alert Level 3 means there is a total ban on sprinklers but we are asking residents to look at ways they can save water indoors and out.”
For more information:
Stephanie Slattery, on 027 807 3478.