SAN DIEGO >> California State Parks has shut off the water in public showers at state beaches in an attempt to conserve water during the drought.

The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that the taps ran dry Wednesday. Officials say the change should save up to 18 million gallons of water annually. The restrictions apply only to outdoor showers and rinse stations, not to indoor campground showers.

Officials suggest using a towel to brush away sand after a beach excursion or bringing water from home in a reusable jug.

Acting director of the department’s San Diego Coast District Garratt Aitchison says outdoor showers were one of the first places California State Parks looked to reduce water use since they are not a health and safety feature, just one of convenience.