Flushing the fire hydrants not only ensures proper working condition of the hydrant, but it also removes sediment and debris, thereby providing you with cleaner water to use in your home or business.
Flushing is done by opening the fire hydrant and letting the water run out. If we are flushing hydrants in your area, you may experience some discoloration of water, changes in water pressure, or temporary interruption of water service. However, it will not affect the potability of the water, and the conditions will disappear in a short period of time.
In order to maintain an inventory of properly working fire hydrants, the hydrants are inspected, tagged and logged on an annual basis. Accurate records are kept for review and are used, in part, by the insurance companies for the fire insurance rating for your home or business.
Along with flushing the hydrants, the hydrants are painted with reflective silver-colored paint. They are classified and categorized by location.
It is also necessary for the hydrant technician to clear any debris from around the hydrant to ensure it is adequately visible to approaching fire equipment.
Residents are encouraged to report any problems with hydrants in their neighborhood. Residents are also encouraged to keep debris, bushes and any other obstructions from blocking a fire hydrant on their property. If you receive a notice to remove shrubs, bushes or other obstructions please understand the importance of this request.