Wessex Water has enforced a hosepipe ban across Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset, effective from midnight, marking the first such restriction in 50 years. This measure comes amid weeks of hot and dry weather contributing to a drought affecting large parts of the country. As a result, approximately 1.4 million customers supplied by Wessex Water are now subject to restrictions on hosepipe use, following the UK’s fifth heatwave of the summer.
While the ban aims to conserve water resources, Wessex Water has confirmed several important exemptions. Customers are reminded that other water suppliers may have differing exemption criteria, so it is advisable to check directly with your provider.
Exemptions include the use of hosepipes when needed to safeguard human health and safety, as well as for animal welfare, encompassing pets, livestock and fish. Additionally, water drawn from sources other than the mains supply, such as water butts or recycled water storage systems, is exempt from the ban.
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Those with medical or mobility needs who cannot safely use watering cans or buckets are also exempt, specifically addressing the needs of individuals with certain conditions.
The hosepipe ban does not apply to vehicles used for public services, business operations or goods transportation; washing of such vehicles using hosepipes remains permitted. Moreover, filling water tanks in caravans or motorhomes for essential activities like washing, cooking or sanitation is allowed.
Further exemptions include using hosepipes to fill pools, paddling pools or hot tubs, provided certain conditions are met. Cleaning of outdoor surfaces such as patios, paths, driveways, walls, windows and garden furniture is also permitted when necessary for health and safety reasons.
Wessex Water urges customers to adhere to the ban where applicable, while utilising exemptions responsibly to aid in managing the region’s water supply during this challenging period.