The Plainview Volunteer Fire Department does an excellent job of protecting the lives and homes of our residents and we must all keep in mind that fire hydrant accessibility is a primary factor in fighting fires successfully. That's why Plainview Water District Commissioners Joel Kessler, Kevin Langberg and Edward Shulroff would like to remind homeowners and local businesses to make sure they keep areas surrounding fire hydrants clear so the fire department can connect its equipment without delays.

"For your own protection and the protection of those you care about, the Plainview Water District urges you to keep this responsibility in mind: please remember as the colder weather approaches to remove any snow that surrounds fire hydrants in front of your property. It is not only an important way to help our every-day heroes, but people's lives may depend on it," said Kessler, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners.

The Plainivew Water District Board of Commissioners would like to thank its residents in advance for adhering to the aforementioned suggestion.

The cold months of winter are directly ahead of us, and although temperatures may decrease, household costs increase by a significant proportion. Energy costs, specifically, the use of hot water, experience the most dramatic rise. Simply lowering the amount of hot water being used can lower hot water costs. Some conservation tips include:

Install devices that regulate and restrict water flow, such as faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads. Faucet aerators attach to a faucet and increase spray velocity and reduce splash. Low-flow showerheads can cut flow rates in half from over six gallons per minutes (gpm) to about three gpm, are reasonably priced, and are not complicated to install.

Instead of baths, which use the most hot water in a household, take showers. Showers taken with a low-flow showerhead may only use one-third the hot water of a bath.

On home appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers, use the lowest temperature settings available. On average, a load of clothes uses 32 gallons of hot water and an automatic dishwasher typically uses 14 gallons of hot water. Switching from hot water to cold water on these appliances will save 32 and 14 gallons of hot water, respectively. Also, operate these appliances when both contain full loads.

Repair leaks in faucets and showers.

The simple steps listed above can prove very helpful in reducing the hot water usage of a household, and in turn reduce the amount of money spent on hot water. For more information on water conservation, please contact the Plainview Water District Customer Service Department at 931-6469.