Following yesterdays unusual weather, Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils have announced temporary water use rules for this weekend.

Residents and businesses in the region will be allowed to wash down houses, windows, hand rails and other surfaces affected by dust with a hose as long as it is fitted with a trigger nozzle.

Wyong Shire Council’s Manager Water and Waste, Greg McDonald said the Councils were relying on the community to use common sense.

“The Central Coast community have proven themselves to be exceptionally water smart and we are relying on them to remain water conscious while cleaning up after this unusual weather,” he said.

“We ask that while cleaning down surfaces that are affected dust the community ensures they have a trigger nozzle fitted to their hose and that they use water as efficiently as possible.

“This doesn’t mean people can take advantage of the temporary rules, if a pathway is particularly covered in dust and is a health hazard then we understand the need to wash this down, but this is not a blanket approval to waste water.”

Gosford City Council Director Water and Sewer, Rod Williams urged residents with rainwater tanks to check their first flush devices.

“As the dust settles on homes across the Coast, residents and businesses with rainwater tanks should check their first flush devices and filters to make sure they are kept clean and clear,” he said.

“They could also consider diverting the rainwater to the normal stormwater system for a short while to reduce the amount of dust entering rainwater tanks.

“This will be especially important for those people with connections to washing machines and toilets.”

The temporary water use rules will be in place for Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2009 only.