Hydrant flushing in July may cause brown water

The City of Maricopa Fire Department, in collaboration with Global Water Resources Inc., will conduct routine fire hydrant flushing and maintenance within the City limits to help ensure hydrants are operational, provide adequate water flow, and maintain adequate system pressure.

The flushing program will start in the Tortosa neighborhood the week of July 6.
 
The National Fire Protection Association recommends that fire hydrants be tested and flushed, at a minimum, every other year, to ensure the proper functioning of hydrants. The Insurance Service Office also requires hydrant testing for its Fire Protection Rating, which directly affects property owner insurance premiums.
 
As part of the program, the Fire Department will: (1) remove the cap from the hydrant to ensure rubber gaskets are intact and functional; (2) open the hydrant to inspect the water flow; (3) shut off the hydrant to attach a flow meter and water deflection device; (4) re-open the hydrant to allow the water to flow until the water is clear and free from debris; and, (5) document information about the hydrant, including its flow rate.
 
Hydrant flushing may cause fine sediment particles within water lines to be disturbed. As a result, residents may experience temporary discoloration of their water. Residents should allow a few minutes for the discoloration to dissipate. In some cases, there may be discoloration for a few hours.

Do not drink the water until it is clear. Make sure there is no sediment in the ice you are using from your ice maker. Residents should also avoid washing laundry until the water is clear. To verify water is clear, run your tap with cold water.

If you do experience brown water the fastest way to eliminate the sediment is to run water from the bath or shower furthest from the point of entry to your home, typically the outside hose hookup located on the front or side of your home.
 
The Maricopa Fire Department takes pride in providing the very best and most comprehensive fire and medical services to its residents. Part of achieving these objectives requires adherence to safety standards that directly relate to hydrant flushing.
 
As additional neighborhoods are scheduled for hydrant flushing, the estimated time frames will be posted on the City of Maricopa Fire Department website at http://www.maricopa-az.gov/web/maricopafiredept-home.
 
Any questions, concerns or clarifications about the Hydrant Flushing Program can be directed to:
Assistant Chief John Storm of the Maricopa Fire Department at 520-510-5585 or [email protected] and
Beth Huerta of Global Water, Client Services Supervisor, 520-233-2913 or [email protected]