St. Albert implements mandatory water restrictions for municipality due to dry weather – Edmonton

The city of St. Albert has implemented mandatory water restrictions due to the hot, dry weather.

The restrictions mean the city has halted all non-essential water activities, with drinking water being used for all municipal operations.

These include flushing fire hydrants, flushing non-emergency sewers, sweeping streets, cleaning up dust, filling swimming pools, watering parks, training firefighters, and washing City of St. Albert vehicles.

The restrictions come as hot, dry weather continues across much of Alberta. The city of St. Albert said that during periods of dry weather, more water is used than usual, leading to lower water levels in the city’s three reservoirs.

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According to the City of St. Albert, these measures are typically taken when water reservoirs are expected to contain less than 50 percent of their available volume.

The municipality asks residents to also do their part to save water by doing the following:

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• Use water from rain barrels until they are empty before using tap water to water the outdoor area.
• Reduce water consumption, especially during peak times: 6am to 9am and 6pm to 9pm.
• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth.
• Make sure washing machines and dishwashers are full before using them.
• Hang up the filled jacuzzis or hot tubs.
• Make sure you have a jug of drinking water in the refrigerator so you don’t have to run the water to get cold water.
• Clean your sidewalks and driveways with a broom or brush, instead of a garden hose.
• Stop washing vehicles and watering your lawn.

Businesses are also being asked to limit their water consumption, especially those that use large amounts of water.

The city says it is monitoring water usage and will provide updates if the situation changes.

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