A rushing stream of water flowing down your street may seem unusual on a rainless day. However, it’s a common occurrence if there are fire hydrants nearby. Most likely, that stream of water stems from a hydrant flushing.
A Regular Event
This process is normally handled between the local utility company and the fire department. And, while it may seem like a waste of water, it is actually very important in the life of the hydrant. It’s also imperative to saving your life or those of your neighbors during a fire.
Here are three reasons why hydrant flushing is so important to do on a regular basis.
Flush Out Debris
Hydrants don’t get used on a normal schedule. So, there’s a chance debris can start accumulating in the feed pipes which lead to it. Flushing the hydrant helps to remove that debris and keep the line clean in case of emergency.
Check Water Flow
This is a critical component to the full operation of a hydrant. Improper flow can cause reduced pressure in a firehose. This is why utilities and fire departments incorporate tools from companies like Hurco Technologies to measure the hydrant flow at the start and in the middle of the flushing process. The test results can determine if service is required on the hydrant.
Determine if Repairs are Needed
If there are issues, then further investigation is required to determine the source of the problem. It could be the line that leads to the hydrant, or it could be the hydrant itself. By flushing the system, repairs or replacement are quickly implemented to ensure the safety of the firefighters and the neighborhood.
Should you have further questions on hydrant flushing contact your local government officials or fire department representative. They can tell you when the next flush will be in your neighborhood and why it’s needed. After that, you may feel reassured when you see a stream of water flow down your street.