Fire Hydrant Maintenance
I've seen County workers opening fire hydrants and letting water rush out onto the street.
Why do you do that?
Every year Strathcona County employees open fire hydrants to let the water flush out the waterlines. Fire hydrants are flushed to remove sediments that collect in water lines. They are inspected thoroughly to ensure proper operation in the case of an emergency.
Why is my water pressure low?
You may notice temporary reduced water pressure while flushing is happening in your neighbourhood. You might also notice your water may be cloudy from the tap. This is only from air in the pipes and is completely safe to drink.
How much water are you using?
Although it may look as though we are wasting a lot of water, the amount is very small - only about one per cent of the annual water usage is used in yearly flushing. You are welcome to fill buckets with the expelled water to use for watering gardens, washing cars or other uses.
When does this happen?
This year, annual maintenance and hydrant flushing began in June and will run through to the end of September. It is normally done during regular working hours.
Additional information
780-467-7785
Last updated: Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Page ID: 2171