We often think of the holidays as a time of abundance; however, we usually never consider the implications of the weather and the impact on the water supply. In Spring Creek Utility District (SCUD), we are still in the Drought Contingency Plan Stage 2. This is because the water wells are still seeing lower numbers. This is why as a District SCUD is still focusing on water conservation even in the winter months.
In the Home
- Don’t ignore leaks, especially in the winter months. Leaks can be caused by broken pipes or valves. A slow drip can waste as much as 170 gallons of water each day and add to the resident’s water bill. By using their Smart Meters, Residents can set up leak alerts and monitor their water usage trends to see any problems that may arise.
- While doing laundry, use cold water as often as possible to save energy and conserve hot water for uses that cold water cannot serve. Conventional washing machines can use up to twice as many gallons of water per load compared to high-efficiency machines. Always wash full loads of laundry.
- Dry scrape dishes and do a light rinse instead of rinsing all scraps down the disposal. Run the dishwasher only when full. This practice will not only save residents water, but will also save energy usage, detergent, and money!
Outdoors
- Taller grass holds moisture more efficiently. In the winter months, hold off on mowing for longer to allow the lawn to retain more moisture.
- Mulching in the winter months to retain moisture and insulate roots of trees and shrubs can benefit plants in many ways. This method also assists in weed control and reduces run-off.
- Adjust sprinklers for the winter months to decrease watering times. During the winter, hand watering may be appropriate for some plants rather than using the automatic sprinkler system.
- Don’t use water to clean patios and sidewalks, especially since this has a risk of creating ice in the winter. instead, use a broom.
The Spring Creek Utility District (SCUD) Board of Directors voted to increase the budget for the constables over the Holidays (December and January) to accommodate for vacation watches and increased patrols for porch pirates.
The Board of Directors is encouraging residents to take advantage of the additional presence in their community by utilizing the vacation watches when applicable. To learn more about free vacation watches click here.
What is a Porch Pirate?
Porch Pirates are people who steal packages from other people’s homes. This is a crime of theft like any other. Why do people do this? Often Porch Pirates are hoping there is valuable merchandise in the packages they are stealing. There is an increase in package thefts during the holiday season as more people are ordering online and having items delivered to their homes.
What can I do?
Have packages held at your local post office
Have your packages held at USPS during the holidays if possible or at a secure delivery location if through another service to protect your items.
Install security cameras
Installing home security is a great way to deter package theft. Equip your home with a sign stating your house is under surveillance. Even if the package is stolen, the video evidence can be beneficial to law enforcement to track down thieves and repeat offenders.
Don’t leave packages left unattended for long periods of time
If you are expecting a delivery, consider being home during the delivery window or setting the delivery window for a time someone will be in the home to receive the item.
Ship the item to the store
Retailers can hold items and require proof of purchase or identification before pickup. This is a sure way to protect your items from porch pirates.
Require a signature
Many delivery companies will offer the option to require a signature upon delivery of a parcel. This option may be beneficial to those who are looking to deter thieves from package theft.
If you fear your package has been stolen, file a report with your local police department and the delivery company. Depending on your delivery service, they may offer to reimburse you for your losses.
Extra Safety Tips:
- Always keep your gas tanks full.
- Check tire pressures and ensure they are at the right pressure during freezes.
- Always keep blankets, jumper cables, and a phone charger in the car in case of an emergency.
- Check local road conditions at www.houstontranstar.org. State highway information is also available at www.drivetexas.org.
- Never leave a space heater unattended.
- Don’t overload outlets or breakers.
- Do not power space heaters with extension cords or power strips.
- Do not leave candles or the fireplace burning unattended.
- Always turn off space heaters when unattended or going to sleep.
- Never use an oven or stove to keep your home warm.
- Practice safety when handling fireworks
- Always check your smoke detector batteries
- Add water to live trees in the home so they do not become a fire hazard
