Periodically, the Public Works Department opens fire hydrants throughout the City and allows the water to flow through the pipes. The hydrant-flushing program is very important to the maintenance of the City's water system.

It serves the following purposes:

• Checks for closed valves and weak flows in the water mains
• Flushes sediments from mainline pipes (which enhances water quality)
• Helps find weaknesses in the water system
• Verifies ample flow for fire fighting
• Verifies the proper operation of fire hydrants and valves

Hints During Hydrant Flushing

• Do not wash white laundry during this period (wait until cold AND hot water are clear before laundering whites).
• Fill a bottle with water and store it in the refrigerator to use for drinking or cooking.
• Flush your hot water tanks after the cold water clears.
• There may be a temporary drop in water pressure at this time.
• Water may be rusty or cloudy. Discolored water is not harmful and will clear up in a few hours.