It's been a strange winter. We've seen warm temperatures, trees already blossoming and very little rain. It makes water conservation a top priority for 38 million Californians.
"In cal fire we've basically taken that to the next level and set that as a true goal," said Captain Ryan Michaels of Cal Fire - Fresno Co.
Captain Ryan Michaels says firefighters at Station 85 in Clovis are saving water by letting laundry pile up a bit more to ensure full loads.
Sprinklers at all stations have been shut-off. However, drip lines will be installed to perserve mature trees.
"Lawns are easily replaced and more of a cosmetic thing if anything," said Cpt. Michaels.
Outdoor faucets will be used less as fire engines, which wer being washed daily, will now be scrubbed on an as needed basis.
"It doesn't seem like much when one engine, but when you're talking about the thousands of pieces of equipment in cal fire, it should make quite a difference," said Cpt. Michaels.
"We're gonna have all pull together and do our best," said Bob Barrett of Clovis.
Clovis homeowner, Bob Barrett, says saving water is something he and his family take very seriously.
"Just like cutting back on driving saves your fuel, cutting back on water is going to hopefully make it through the winter," said Barrett.
"You don't think it's a lot at the time, but over the course of a day, month or year, that really adds up. Those gallons are going to make a difference when we're talking about cities and communities going without water," said Cpt. Michaels.
There's a balancing act that comes with conserving water. It can make grass and weeds around our homes even drier, therefore, increasing the risk of fires. So firefighters encourage you to mow down vegetation. It's recommended you do it early in the morning when the temperature is lower and the humidity is higher.
For more information on water saving tips, click the link at the top of this page.