The American Water Works Association (AWWA) and partners throughout North America today kicked off Drinking Water Week celebrations by showcasing the different ways tap water is “There When You Need It.” Drinking Water Week is May 1 to May 7 this year.

AWWA is observing Drinking Water Week by recognizing the vital role tap water plays in daily life, the infrastructure that is required to carry it to and from homes and businesses, and the critical work that water professionals accomplish around the clock to ensure the delivery of quality tap water.

“Tap water plays an integral role in meeting our daily health, hygiene and hydration needs,” said AWWA CEO David LaFrance. “Water sector professionals, the infrastructure they work to design, create and maintain and the treatment process all work in harmony to ensure safe tap water is ‘There When You Need It.’”

To commemorate the week, water utilities, water organizations, government entities, environmental advocates, schools and others throughout North America and beyond are encouraging consumers to learn more about the importance of water services and water infrastructure, especially in times of crisis.

To help children learn about the importance of their drinking water, AWWA has just released an educational kids activity book, available in both English and Spanish, featuring a crossword puzzle, word scramble, Mad Libs, Eye Spy, maze and word find and coloring pages. Other Drinking Water Week materials are available to download through AWWA’s website for this year’s Drinking Water Week celebration.

AWWA is also sponsoring a Drinking Water Week photo contest to increase awareness of and appreciation for safe, sustainable and affordable drinking water. The contest, which spans the entirety of Drinking Water Week, ends May 7. Participants are encouraged to submit a photo of a moment when water is “There When You Need It,” to enter the online contest. Participants earn points with additional engagements with AWWA’s social media platforms.