Bags to save a criminal waste of water

04/07/2007

A Suffolk prison is set to save water by using Save-a-flush bags in all of its cisterns.
 
HM Blundeston in Lowestoft has installed 250 of the special bags so inmates can help save the precious resource.

The bags, donated by Essex & Suffolk Water, will save one litre of water and money every time a toilet is flushed.

A Save-a-flush is a plastic bag containing a harmless polymer silica mixture which swells on contact with water and takes up some of the room in the toilet cistern so that when it refills it doesn’t use as much water.

Paul Baxter from HM Blundeston said: “We feel that it is important to be conscious about the amount of water that we use, especially as we live in a dry part of the country.

“The bags are really easy to install and are very effective. We are glad to be able to do our bit towards protecting future supplies of water.”

Claire Bishop from Essex & Suffolk Water said: “This is one of the biggest requests for Save-a-flushes we have had - we are always happy to give these devices out to homes and businesses in our supply area.

“We are very pleased to hear that HM Blundeston is setting such a good example to staff and inmates.”

She added: “Our water resources are currently at a satisfactory level and we do not envisage any restrictions in the Essex & Suffolk Water supply area but it is always important to reduce waste and protect supplies.”

Those who require a free Save-a-flush should call 08456 048071.

Ends

For further information please call Claire Bishop on 01245 212010.

Information follows on ways to save water in the home and garden.

Other ways to be water-wise in the home and garden include:

1.  Use a water butt to collect and store your rainwater.

2.  Use full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine.

3.  Replace washers on dripping taps - they can waste up to 26 litres of water in 24 hours - that's enough for a shower!

4.  Don't leave the tap running when you brush your teeth, use a glass, this can waste 10 litres everytime.

5.  If you take a bath, don't fill it right to the top, try reducing the level by 1 inch.

6.  Use a bucket rather than a hose to wash the car.

7.  If washing up by hand, water the garden with the dirty water rather than tripping down the drain.

8.   Water plants in the evening to retain moisture in the soil.

9. Report any leaks you spot so that we can fix them quickly - ring the leak hotline on 0800 526 337.