The UK is still reeling after experiencing some of its hottest summer temperatures on record, with the mercury passing the 40°C mark in some parts of the country earlier this month.
The intensely hot conditions led to devastating fires as well as sparking the first ever red Met Office warning for extreme heat – and there’s no guarantee we won’t see a repeat of those conditions before the season is over.
Unsurprisingly, the heatwave led to people taking any opportunity to cool down – whether that involved using garden sprinklers, filling up paddling pools or taking long showers.
But water companies have urged customers to be more ‘responsible’ during such periods – while there have also been warnings of a possible hosepipe ban for parts of England to control usage, which environmentalists have been calling for for years.
Further advice from Scottish Water includes ‘filling the kettle with only the water you need’.
Anglian Water has also urged residents use ‘every space’ in the dishwasher before turning it on.
Meanwhile, water regulator Ofwat urged people to take a five-minute shower instead of a bath as it uses half the volume.
Andrew Tucker from Thames Water, said the company is not currently expecting to introduce restrictions this summer.
However, he said it is important households remain responsible with their usage and help limit the pressure on resources.
He said: ‘During spells of hot weather, water usage can often rocket, with hoses and sprinklers watering gardens, and paddling pools filled.
‘That makes it even more important to be mindful of water usage to ensure there’s enough to go around for everyone.’
The warning comes as research released today by Thames Water and YouGov reveals that rising temperatures and its effect on the supply of water is an issue causing concern among adults in England.
Over three quarters (76%) think it is possible parts of the country will experience water shortages in the next 20 to 30 years.
More than a third (38%) say they would be motivated to use less water to protect rivers and the environment.
Almost as many would cut back to make sure there’s enough water available for future generations.
Peter Jenkins, director of campaigns at Water UK, stressed that water companies are already seeing substantial demand as the sizzling heat prevails.
‘We can all help ensure there’s enough to go around by being mindful of the amount of water we use while ensuring we stay hydrated and safe,’ he said.
‘By making just small changes indoors or in the garden you can have a big impact on our water consumption.’
Yesterday, the highest temperature recorded in the UK was 30.1°C but forecasters say the mercury will peak over the weekend when people are likely to be at home tempted to fill the pool or cool down with the sprinklers in their garden.
Instead, people are being encouraged to keep their homes cool, for example by closing blinds or curtains, and drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding exercise.
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