From Volusia County Water Resources and Utilities

Watering restrictions are still in effect!
Failure to comply can result in fines to the homeowner.

May/June 2004

Florida, on average, receives approximately 54 inches of rain annually. Of that, 39 nine inches is used by plants and lost to evaporation. An additional eight inches runs off to streams, rivers and the ocean. That leaves about seven inches to replenish our aquifer. In many areas, more than one half of the water withdrawn from the aquifer for public supply ends up as lawn irrigation. Everyone’s water use has an impact on our future water supplies. That’s why it’s important to use it in the right way. Water conservation is an important action we all can take to help sustain and reduce the demand on our Florida aquifer.

Hurricane Preparedness

June 1 marks the beginning of hurricane season. The following information is provided to help you make some disaster preparedness for you and your family.

Because disaster can strike at any time, your local water utility takes extra measures to protect both the availability and quality of your water supply. Although no amount of preparation can prevent a disaster, planning can limit is effects. One of the most important supplies to have on hand in the event of a disaster is safe drinking water.

A good rule of thumb is to store one gallon of water per person per day. You should plan for at least three days. For example, a family of four should store 12 gallons of water, one for each person and enough for three days. Remember, you'll need more water in hot temperatures and for strenuous activities. People with special needs such as nursing mothers, young children, and family members with illnesses also require more water.

If you have advance warning of a disaster or other possible disruption of your water supply, fill bathtubs, sinks, and all available containers with water to supplement the water you have stored. If you are caught unprepared, the drain on your hot water heater can supply you with a good amount of water in an emergency.

If disinfected tap water is stored in a clean, airtight container and in a cool location, the water should remain safe indefinitely. As a general rule, change your emergency water supply at least every six months to ensure freshness.

Visit the Volusia County Disaster Preparedness Guide website for additional information including tracking maps and shelter information.

(Click image below for printable size)

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Volusia County, Florida.