The Department of Water Supply has issued an immediate water restriction request for residents and businesses in the Laupāhoehoe area in East Hawai‘i.  Residents are being asked to reduce their water usage until further notice. Due to equipment malfunctions, DWS will need to haul all drinking water to meet customers’ water needs. Thus, DWS is asking residents and businesses to reduce water use by 25 percent to ensure everyone’s water needs are met.

Updates will be issued as necessary and may be viewed at www.hawaiidws.org.

Performing the following steps will help to conserve water by 25 percent:

• Wash only full loads of laundry and dishes.

• Check faucets and pipes for leaks.

• Do not let water run when washing hands, shaving, and brushing teeth.

• Reduce showering times.

• Use water-saving devices whenever possible.

• Use a broom instead of a water hose when gathering leaves and grass clippings.

Customers can call (808) 961-8050 during normal business hours, or (808) 961-8790 for after-hour emergencies.