Most, if not all, of us take it for granted that we have clean water, plenty of it, and sanitation to boot. Of course, the sanitation (aka sewage treatment or containment) is a requirement for having clean water, but you know that. And having clean water, and enough of it to take care of our basic needs, doesn’t happen by accident. It takes work.

If you are served by water and sewer utilities (most people who live or work in cities, towns, suburbs), then someone else is doing most of the work for you. However, your simple act of paying your bills and supporting utilities when they need to increase rates (most utilities are woefully underfunding their maintenance needs!) is a way to support clean water for all.

You can also do your part to keep costs down by not doing stupid stuff that causes the utility extra work and  major expense. What’s that stupid stuff? Top on the list is “flushable” wipes. No. No. No.  But there’s plenty more: dental floss, paper towels, plastic bags, pantyhose (you’d be amazed what people try to flush!).

Not getting it yet? The students at Keene High School (New Hampshire) have a message for you!