Norwich — As statewide drought conditions persist, Norwich Public Utilities is asking residential and commercial customers to make “reasonable adjustments” to conserve water until conditions in the region improve.

NPU’s two reservoirs are tracking slightly below their five-year normal cycle and are at 76% of overall storage capacity. The utility continues to monitor its reservoir levels, daily consumer demands and internal water uses closely. NPU spokesman Chris Riley said it’s too early to tell whether Tuesday’s rain will help ease drought conditions.

“While this is not an emergency situation, we are asking our customers to help us manage through the current conditions and cut back their water use whenever they can,” NPU General Manager Chris LaRose said in a news release asking for the conservation measures. “A few small adjustments in daily routines can make a big difference if enough people respond to our request.”

NPU and the state Department of Public Health are asking the public to consider the following tips for conserving water:

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[naviga:li]Turn off sprinklers for the season, or limit lawn watering to no more than once a week.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Postpone the planting of any new lawns or vegetation. If you must plant, choose drought-resistant options.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Refrain from any unnecessary or wasteful uses of water, such as rinsing sidewalks, driveways or patios.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Run dishwashers or washing machines with full loads only.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Do not leave a faucet running when washing dishes, shaving, brushing teeth and washing hands.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Reduce time in the shower by one minute a day until you are in and out of the shower in under five minutes.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Avoid power washing homes and buildings and washing vehicles.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Fix any leaks in and around your home or business immediately.[/naviga:li]

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c.bessette@theday.com