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With Temperatures In The Triple Digits, How Can You Stay Cool In The Drought?

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — With hot temperatures on the way, families are looking for ways to keep cool without wasting water during California's drought.

Rhea Serran with the city of Sacramento's water conservation department says you can use your hose to cool off, with one caveat.

"We are in a historic drought, so to cool off in Sacramento you can have a hose, just make sure you have a shut-off nozzle," she said.

Products like a slip 'n' slide are OK as well, but not if water is running down the street. That could earn you a warning or a ticket.

"It's the runoff that's the main issue, because it's not serving any purpose," she said.

If you use kiddie pools, she suggests reusing the water after you're done.

"Use it to water your plants, use it double duty, that's what we look for. Try to reuse it in creative ways. You could even use it to flush your toilet," she said.

The most water-friendly way to beat the heat is to visit a local community pool or pop into a library that has air conditioning.

Parents like Emily Shotts say keeping kids cool is a good way to keep them happy, but don't forget the basics their bodies need.

"Obviously you gotta keep them hydrated; water and juices and stuff," she said.

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