Hydrant tests and flushing

Walhalla Fire Department will begin tests and flushing of more than 200 hydrants in and around the city, starting Monday, May 15.  The work done is part of a bi-annual maintenance schedule.  This testing identifies any problems and ensures the hydrants spew out the necessary amounts of water during a fire.  The maintenance is a requirement of ISO — the Insurance Service Office– and helps Walhalla keep its city-wide rating of a Class 2 Public Protection Classification.  During testing, there may be pressure drops and discolored water, but only temporary caused by running large amounts of water through pipes that haven’t been used recently.  Advice to the homeowner:  don’t wash clothes until any discolored water disappears.