| Public awareness has helped spread the word and | | | | protect the people from sickness and disease |
| make people aware of the environmental issues. | | | | that can be carried in unpurified water. |
| Every day more and more people are taking small | | | | Rainwater is not purified and can be especially |
| steps to do their part to reduce waste and | | | | dangerous for infants. There are many uses for |
| recycle all types of items. Part of this process is | | | | rainwater that hasn't been purified. Although you |
| to recycle and reuse the natural energies of the | | | | may not be able to use it for drinking and it |
| earth. A rain barrel or rain barrel system can | | | | probably isn't practical for you to set up a water |
| provide water for your garden and car using | | | | collection system like the ones used on an Island. |
| melting snow and rainfall. You can't drink it and | | | | It can make a difference in your water and |
| you probably won't be able to replace your | | | | sewer bills depending on how much water you |
| current water supply but, you can collect rain | | | | collect. If your area sets up a water rationing |
| water and recycle it around the house in several | | | | system you'll still be able to water your lawn with |
| ways. | | | | the rainwater. |
| Reusing rain water is an economical way to wash | | | | The modern rain barrel system is attractive and |
| your car, water your garden and a variety of | | | | you can find ones that blend right with your home |
| other things. Rainwater can be easily collected and | | | | and garden decor. If you're not concerned with |
| stored for use around your home during the | | | | the look and want to save money you can build |
| summer or any time of year. Although it may not | | | | and decorate your own rain barrel. The average 1 |
| be safe for drinking it is safe for plants and can | | | | 2" rainfall can fill a 50-55 gallon barrel. A 2,000 |
| save you money. | | | | square foot roof can provide about 1,000 gallons |
| On some islands each home and apartment | | | | of collectible water. |
| building have an individual water tank to collect and | | | | Over time the savings will add up and a rain barrel |
| store rainwater. Some of these islands have no | | | | can keep water away from the homes |
| fresh water lakes, rivers rainy season. The water | | | | foundation. Large containers of water also have |
| is stored in a tank under the building. Rainwater | | | | some safety and maintenance issues that should |
| itself is not enough to supply the islands so it is | | | | be practiced for everyone's protection. They are |
| also collected from underground sources as well. | | | | easy to set up and safe to use in a few easy |
| Some islanders have never had water pumped | | | | steps. |
| into their homes. There are laws in place to | | | | |