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.