CCFR to start testing fire hydrants in April

During a fire is not the time to make sure a fire hydrant is accessible and working properly. To be sure hydrants are in good order, Central County Fire & Rescue (CCFR) crews will be out on the streets, beginning April 1, checking the 3,554 fire hydrants when they are not responding to emergency calls.

“Throughout the year accidental damage, mechanical malfunctions and changes to the area surrounding the hydrant can occur,” said CCFR Chief Russ Mason. “It is important to make sure each hydrant is accessible and has a working water supply.” All fire hydrants should be unobstructed, and have a minimum of three feet of open space around them. During the testing firefighters check and clean the threads of the hydrant, flush the lines and check for working condition and flow levels.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Insurance Services Office (ISO), which helps determine homeowner insurance rates, recommends fire hydrant testing for the safety of residents.

Residents may notice water discoloration during, and for a short time following, the hydrant testing. This is caused by fine amounts of sediment being flushed out of the water main lines. It is not harmful, and the water will return to normal shortly after the testing.

“If you notice a discoloration we recommend running cold water for five minutes, this should allow all of the sediment to clear from the line,” Mason said.