After weeks without rain, area residents have been relying on sprinkler systems and water hoses not just to pamper their lawns and gardens, but to keep them alive. Those of us who found ourselves in that predicament had mixed emotions about the city’s call this week to refrain from using water outdoors for three days.

The problem was not a shortage of water. The huge demand has so taxed the system that pumps were working overtime and the water pressure was dangerously low, and being felt in some parts of the city.

Voluntarily cutting back now, city officials say, will save us from mandatory cutbacks. Or as Mayor Earl Johnson, known to speak bluntly on occasion, explained, “We understand that people don’t want to lose their plants and lawns. But we think that’d be a whole lot better than not having water to drink or take a bath.”

They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. As hard as it is to refrain from turning the water hoses on, it’s better than being without water.

Thanks to those who have voluntarily complied and who will continue to conserve water in the hot, dry days ahead.

A rain dance and a few prayers wouldn’t hurt, either.