Clean water is critical to stem the coronavirus pandemic. Here's what you can do to help

In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Americans have rightly recognized the heroism and importance of medical professionals, first responders and the “essential workers” staffing groceries and pharmacies.

Perhaps less recognized, but every bit as important, are those employed in the water and sanitation sector.

Every time we wash our hands, we should be grateful for the policies, investments and – above all – dedicated professionals who keep our most important anti-viral weapon flowing 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Water professionals are so critical that some have been quarantined inside of water treatment facilities to protect them from infection so they can continue working, as is the case for workers at the Carlsbad desalination facility in California.

Most of us rarely, if ever, stop to think about the water professionals our lives depend on, but this week is Arizona Water Professionals Appreciation Week, so we’d like to take a moment to suggest four simple ways we can show our gratitude for the individuals who are working to ensure clean water and sanitation during this crisis and at all other times.