Fire Hydrant Flushing InformationImproves Water Quality
Sometimes something as simple as hydrant flushing
can make a big difference to water quality.
The process of "Flushing" allows us to test the fire hydrants to ensure that they work properly and to remove sediment buildup in the water mains which will enhance the performance of the distribution system and improve or maintain the clarity of your water delivered to your home.
During this process of
flushing you may notice a temporary discoloration of
your water supply, this is normal when the hydrants are
being flushed and the sediment is being removed from the
water mains.
However to help avoid staining of your laundry, we
recommend that you do not wash clothing during the
periods of the flushing.
If you are experiencing
discolored water:
If discolored water occurs, it is not a health hazard.
However, during the testing procedures, iron (red water)
and manganese (black water) may become stirred up within
the water main, which can create staining on the
porcelain and laundry. For this reason it is vital that
the public be aware of the time and area that will be
affected.
Since fire hydrants are needed upon an immediate basis during an emergency, fire hydrants should be immediately recognizable to fire fighting forces as well as to the general public. The City uses the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) which specifies that fire hydrants are to be painted in a color code system, the standard color codes are listed below:
Standard color codes are as follows: NFPA
Hydrant not in Use Black
Class C Less than 500 GPM Red
Class B 500-999 GPM Orange
Class A 1000-1499 GPM Green
Class AA 1500 GPM & above Blue