‘Tis the season for being thankful, counting down the holidays, and enjoying special time with family and friends. And while it may not rival the top trending toys or tech of the season, it’s also a good time to be grateful for the gift of water and the many ways in which we benefit from this precious resource.
Living in a state mostly surrounded by water – with lakes, rivers and streams throughout, and where swimming pools abound – it may seem like we having a never-ending supply, which is why we often take it for granted. But according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), less than one percent of the Earth’s water is available for human use, with the remainder comprised of salt water found in oceans, fresh water frozen in the polar ice caps, or water that simply isn’t accessible. Florida uses about 6.4 billion gallons of water per day, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FEPD), and the demand is ever-increasing.
Counting down the ways we use water may not generate the excitement of ringing in a new year, but given the essential role it plays in adding years to our lives, water deserves at least a few minutes of our time and attention. As you are making your lists (and checking them twice), consider these “Top 5” ways we benefit from water every day, and how you might help pay it forward for the next generation.
Drink it up!
We benefit most from our personal consumption of water and how much we drink. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), water helps your body keep a normal temperature, lubricate and cushion joints, protect your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, and get rid of waste. The amount of water needed increases when you are in hot climates, more physically active, or running a fever.
Stay healthy!
In addition to drinking, water helps us stay healthy, maintain personal hygiene, and improve sanitation in our communities. This includes showering and bathing, brushing our teeth, cooking our food, washing our clothes, cleaning our floors, and treating our wastewater.
Let it Grow!
The largest use of water worldwide is for irrigation required to grow crops, support food production and maintain livelihoods in the agricultural industry. Sprinkler systems that keep our lawns and plants looking lush and green are a top priority for most homeowners and communities.
Fun in the Sun!
Especially in Florida, water-based recreational activities – from swimming to boating to fishing and other water sports – can be enjoyed year-round. And when it’s time to head back indoors, remember that water as a coolant or generator for powerplants keeps you comfy by running your AC system and powering your water heater.
More than an Ounce of Prevention!
When it comes to our firefighters, water is the key to saving lives, protecting property, and preventing the spread of fires to adjacent structures. Water availability in these situations can literally be a matter of life and death, and there have been times when the efforts of these first responders have been hindered by low water pressure.
The Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) owns and operates almost 100 water and wastewater utility systems in 14 Florida counties, providing service to more than 120,000 customer connections. Counties served by FGUA include Citrus, Hillsborough, Lake, Marion, Orange, Pasco, Polk, Seminole, Hardee, Lee, Alachua, Flagler, Putnam and Volusia.