THE worsening drought situation across the county despite recent heavy rainfall has seen voluntary water restrictions brought in by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue (DSFR).

The brigade said it was taking steps to reduce water usage to ‘preserve as much water as we can during the severe drought’.

But, it said operational firefighting would not be affected.

South West Water (SWW) said its total reservoir levels stood at just 30 per cent, compared to 49 per cent at the same time in 2025.

Most stark is Wimbleball Reservoir, on Exmoor, which was down to just 13 per cent against 26 per cent for the same time last year.

SWW has already applied for a non-essential use ban which could force some businesses to avoid using water for certain reasons.

A DSFR spokesperson said it was limiting vehicle washing to what was necessary for safe and legal operation and not using mains water during drill nights and training which did not involve live fire.

The spokesperson said: “The training will continue but without drawing on the water supply.

“This will not compromise our operational response.

“We will continue to use water for live fire training, which operational fire crews take part in annually to maintain their skills.”

SWW said the fire service had taken the decision independently.

Its spokesperson said: “We welcome efforts from all businesses and services to reduce non essential water use during the current severe drought.”