Because of below-normal rain fall over the past several weeks, Pennsylvania American Water is asking customers in the Butler area to voluntarily reduce water usage by five percent, in accordance with the company's drought contingency plan.

“Currently, our local sources are at adequate levels, and we are maximizing the pumping of raw water from the Allegheny River and treated water from our Ellwood City system to ease the demand on the Butler reservoirs,” stated Dan Hufton, senior director of production.

“We are carefully monitoring our supplies and are asking that our customers do their part now, so that we don't face more severe conditions until more rainfall arrives.”

The company urged customers to conserve water by these tips:

Inside your house:

Install water-saving showerheads and faucet aerators in your sinks

Shorten showers to 7-10 minutes

Turn off the water while brushing teeth

Run only full loads in your dishwasher

Rinse produce in a basin rather than under running water

Adjust the water level on your washing machine to match the size of your load

Check your toilets for leaks

Outside your house:

Use a broom, not a hose, for cleaning patios, sidewalks and driveways

Cover your pool or spa to reduce evaporation

Use a mulching mower to slow evaporation from the soil's surface

Water your lawn and plants only when needed

Plant appropriately for your climate

Use a spray nozzle with a shut-off valve on your hose