Summer is among us — the days are longer and temperatures are warmer. For many of us, that means heading outdoors to engage in water activities. Here are some great tips for having fun in the sun and keeping it cool, all while conserving water.

1. Swimming Pools. Swimming pools provide fun in the sun, but they can also be water wasters. To prevent water waste, here are a few simple methods to save water in and around the pool:

• Use a pool cover; it will reduce water loss caused by evaporation.

• Check your pool for leaks. Leaks can waste approximately 100,000 gallons of water per year.

• Control splashing to minimize splash out / runoff.

• When filling your pool, keep an eye on the water level. Don’t overflow or leave the hose on.

• If you need to drain the pool, drain the water onto a dry part of the lawn or landscape.

2. Community swimming pools and aquatic playgrounds (spray parks) are great alternatives to privately owned water recreation. Community pools and spray parks are publically owned; therefore, staff has been properly trained to maintain equipment and ensure water conservation measures. The City of Turlock has three pools and two spray parks open to the public throughout the  summer months. Contact the Recreation Department at 209-668-5594 for locations and hours.

3. Washing your vehicle at home is a great activity for the whole family, but it can also lead to water wasting. Following a few simple steps when washing your vehicle can help to conserve water:

• Wash vehicles on the grass and in the shade, not on the pavement.

• Don’t leave the hose running. Use a hose equipped with an automatic shut-off valve.

• If you don’t want to wash your car yourself, take it to a car wash. A commercial car wash is likely to use less water than a hose and the dirt and oils from your car will be diverted into the sewer, not into the storm water drain.

—  Brought to you by the City of Turlock Municipal Services Department

Water Conservation Tip #12

POOL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

Properly managing your pool to avoid unnecessary draining and refilling can save thousands of gallons of water a year.