Extreme drought conditions and the likelihood of another challenging fire season have prompted a community in one of the driest parts of British Columbia to start managing its water supply early — and turning off the taps for people who don’t follow the rules.

The City of Merritt has announced water restrictions — that the mayor says wouldn’t usually be considered until mid-July — in an effort to conserve water ahead of wildfire season and get people in the habit of using less.

Level 3 watering restrictions are in effect, limiting lawn and garden watering to two times per week, on designated days depending on numbered addresses. Hand watering and washing is allowed any time.

Mayor Michael Goetz said he’s anxious about the months ahead, knowing the snowpack is the lowest ever recorded at this time of year.

According to Agriculture Canada, the Merritt area, about 200 kilometres northeast of Vancouver, is facing a severe drought. The agency describes river levels as “significantly low.”