Water is a precious natural resource, though not a limitless one. Factors such as population growth, changes in household size and our increasing affluence are all putting supplies under greater pressure.

Between 1992 and 1997, water consumption in English and Welsh households increased from 140 to 149 litres per person per day.

Shortages can develop quickly during hot, dry periods in some parts of the country; so it is important we all do our bit to reduce consumption in the home.

Many of the things we can do to reduce consumption require very little effort or expense. Turning the tap off when brushing your teeth, or using a water butt to collect rain for use in the garden, can save millions of litres a year.

Flushing the loo accounts for 30-40% of your household water use. Putting a brick or filled drink bottle in the toilet cistern is an easy way to save water. Some companies provide special bags called 'hippos' for this purpose. Be careful not to interfere with the flushing mechanism!

Another suggestion is to install a water meter in your home. This way you will only pay for the water you use, encouraging you to reduce your consumption and saving you money! They may be free to install, contact your water supplier for more information.

For the more serious water conservationist there are longer term measures. For example, you could install a composting toilet. This could typically save about 50 litres a day.

You could also install a more advanced rain water collection system that uses rain water 'harvested' from your roof in your toilet or washing machine.

Visit the Environment Agency's website at
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/subjects/waterres/.