Firefighters check city hydrants

During the next several months (April and May), firefighters will implement the annual hydrant inspection and maintenance program throughout the City of Hickory service area. During this process, firefighters and public utilities personnel will be working very close to busy streets while actually flowing water from hydrants. For the safety of all, motorists are encouraged to reduce their speed and exercise extreme caution when recognizing their path of travel will pass nearby hydrants being operated.

“Although firefighters check hydrants for various reasons, the main priority is to ensure that each hydrant is verified for usage in the event of a fire. While flowing each hydrant, firefighters also use instruments to calculate the amount of pressure and available water. This proactive approach is also important in maintaining the City’s current fire insurance rating,” stated Battalion Chief Jeff Hoyle.    

“An added benefit of this program is that flushing hydrants helps maintain water quality. However, as a consequence of flushing, sometimes this operation causes brief discoloration. If this should occur, call the City of Hickory at 828-323-7427 to flush the main line. After the main line is cleared of discoloration, homeowners should turn on an outside spigot to clear up the water inside the residence. Refrain from using hot water as soon as possible after experiencing discoloration to prevent the hot water heater from getting discolored,” stated Public Utilities Director Will Hamblin.

Since there are more than 2,000 hydrants located in the city, this process will take several months to complete. Although checking these hydrants will mainly take place on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., firefighters may occasionally have to make various checks during weekends and after hours when it is impractical or not feasible to do so during the weekday.

To be notified when hydrants will be flowed in your area, please sign up to receive CodeRED Alerts through Catawba County’s Community Alert Program.

For additional information or questions, please contact Hickory Public Utilities at 828-323-7427 and/or Battalion Chief Jeff Hoyle at 828-323-7420.