Tap Water Day is almost here and YourSoCalTapWater is getting excited! May 7^th is a day to celebrate the important role that clean, safe tap water plays in our lives, here in Southern California. Started by the American Water Works Association, Tap Water Day is the last day of Drinking Water Week; another reason to celebrate! Each day we use water for everything from brushing our teeth to bathing, laundry to cooking. It seems too simple. We turn on the faucet, clean water comes out and we use it. It is a luxury that is often taken for granted. Not only is Tap Water Day a time to appreciate safe tap water, but it is also a day to raise awareness for this precious natural resource.

Water quality in Southern California adheres to the highest standards mandated by drinking water law and because of this, residents are able to use tap water on a daily basis with confidence about its safety. In fact, water undergoes testing almost constantly by public water agencies- before it is cleaned, after it is cleaned, and even after it leaves our homes. Unfortunately, this resource is not limitless and must be conserved. Tap Water Day is a time to show appreciation for our local water resources, while also becoming educated on the importance of saving water for future generations.

Did you know?

• Approximately 70% of the human body is made of water. Water really is life!
• Humans can only live for about a week without water.
• Water increases energy levels.
• About 75% of the Earth’s surface is covered in water.
• Less than 1% of the world’s water can be used for drinking.
• The same water that existed on Earth millions of years ago is the same water that is still here today.
• Approximately 85% of people in the United States get their water from public water systems.
• Americans now use 127% more water now than in 1950.
• The majority of household water use takes place outdoors.

Ways to celebrate Tap Water Day:

1. Share SoCal Tap Water’s Tap Water Day video above on social media!
2. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day to stay hydrated.
3. Add water-wise plants to your garden.
4. Challenge yourself to use only 13 gallons of water a day.
5. Reuse excess water from heating up the shower to water plants outdoors.
6. Wash fruits and vegetables in a bowl of water rather than using running tap water.
7. Tell someone else about how they can conserve water.
8. Time your shower by listening to one song.

For more tap water facts visit:

http://water.usgs.gov/edu/earthhowmuch.html

http://water.usgs.gov/edu/propertyyou.html

https://www.dosomething.org/facts/11-facts-about-your-drinking-water