RENO — As temperatures rise after a wet June, the Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) encourages customers to practice responsible water use as a way to manage the community’s precious water resources.

“It is our goal to educate and encourage responsible water use and we’re thankful that the community has responded so well the past few years,” Andy Gebhardt, TMWA’s water conservation supervisor, said. “During the summer months water use increases greatly, but simple changes like using a hose with a shut-off nozzle can make a big difference.”

Practicing responsible water use outdoors is easy with these tips:

• Plant native, drought-tolerant plants.

• Follow assigned-day watering.

• Use a broom to clean driveways and sidewalks instead of a hose

• Water during the cooler parts of the day.

• Check for leaks in outside pipes, hoses and faucets.

• Keep plants cool and retain moisture by adding mulch to your landscape.

• Avoid watering when it’s raining or windy.

• Mow your lawn to the correct height to prevent “sun scald.”

Homes with addresses ending in an odd number, water on Thursdays and Sundays. Homes with addresses ending in an even number, water on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Businesses, water on Tuesdays and Fridays. Monday is a day of rest for the water system.

For a complete list of responsible water use tips, visit the conservation section at www.tmh2o.com. For general TMWA information, log on to www.tmh2o.com or call 834-8080.