Yesterday, a major water pipe in Northcote ruptured and water fountained in the air for about 12 hours before it was contained. Obviously that’s a lot of water lost and it’s heart breaking to see it go to waste when we can little afford to waste water.

It has been reported that people played in the water (and who can blame them with this heatwave!) and some was caught for gardens and car washing.

In case a major water leak occurs near you, here are some ideas on how to make the most of the leaking water:

catch water in as many containers as you can – tip it onto your plants first, but if it’s still coming, water lawns, top up pools & ponds, water neighbour’s plants, pour some onto your compost pile and wash your car

create small dams in the gutters so water will flow onto nature strips and yards instead of down the drain. If there is a nearby park, oval or public garden, direct some water onto it, too.

find careful ways to store it for a few days – make sure it is covered so it isn’t a drowning risk for children or a breeding ground for mozzies. In a few days, your garden will love a second generous watering!

make sure everyone nearby knows about the leak so they too can collect and use the precious liquid

Have you ever been near a major leak? How did you and others deal with it?