The two-year-long drought that has gripped Madison is causing serious problems for our community. For several months we have lived with severe limitations on our water consumption. We can water lawns or wash cars only from midnight to 4:00 a.m. Recently, restrictions have become even more severe. Since our water use is regulated, we must monitor how much water we use to wash laundry or dishes and to bathe. Water quality has also become a problem. The water smells like unwashed socks, and most people do not feel safe drinking it. However, the worst problem we are facing is the threat of serious fires. Recently, three homes burned to the ground when a small grass fire grew out of control. Carelessness with fire or lightning during a thunderstorm could set our whole town ablaze.