Drought Preparedness | Bryan County

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Drought is a slow onset hazard that can last for months or years—affecting water supplies, agriculture, and public health. Being proactive during dry periods helps conserve critical resources, minimize costs, and protect community well-being. Below are practical steps to help you prepare before, during, and after drought conditions.

Conserve Water at Home

Use less water—start with small changes
- Fix leaking faucets and dripping pipes—just one drop per second wastes ~2,700 gallons per year.
- Install faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads, retrofit toilets with displacement devices, or use low-volume models.
- Collect and reuse greywater for plants, and avoid using the garbage disposal—compost food instead of running the disposal.

Make outdoor water-use efficient
- Water gardens early in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation.
- Use mulch and drought-tolerant landscaping to minimize watering needs.

Plan & Understand Community Preparedness

Incorporate drought into your family’s emergency plan
- Understand how drought affects your water supply and prepare contingencies
- Document water usage restrictions or alerts from local authorities and adjust plans accordingly.

Support drought resilience in your community
- Advocate for drought in hazard mitigation plans—support policies like water-efficient landscaping, stormwater reuse, and aquifer recharge.
- Stay informed about local water restrictions and share tips on conservation to help neighbors and vulnerable populations.

Stay Healthy During Drought

Know drought’s health impacts
- Drought can reduce water quality, increase risks of food shortages, elevate heat stress, worsen air quality, and impact mental health.
- Take steps to protect vulnerable groups—infants, older adults, people with chronic illness, or those without reliable water access.

Maintain water safety
- Follow water advisories—boil water if instructed by health officials, and ensure safe storage for drinking and hygiene.