Public Service Announcement 

(Philomath, OR) Philomath Fire & Rescue will begin testing hydrants within the city limits of Philomath starting May 31st. This involves flowing several fire hydrants to exercise and measure the water flow capacity of the hydrants around the City. This work is being done as part of our yearly testing program on behalf of the City of Philomath to ensure that the water supply for fighting fires is reliable and adequate. We will also make sure hydrants and valves are in good condition and notify Public Works if there are any issues found. Hydrant testing is anticipated to take two weeks, from May 31st through approximately June 10th.

Hydrant Testing Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is hydrant testing necessary? Hydrant testing verifies the proper operation of hydrants and valves, as well as available fire flow. We do this as part of the ISO requirements for annual testing of hydrants and to ensure that we have a reliable water supply for firefighting.
What should I do when hydrants are being tested in my area? If you see a crew testing a hydrant on your street, avoid running tap water and using the washing machine or the dishwasher until the testing is done. If you see hydrant testing crews working in the area, please drive carefully and treat them like any other road construction crew.

What should I do after hydrant testing?

• If tap water is used during testing, it could produce sediment that causes discoloration. If you encounter discolored water, shut the water off and wait several minutes. After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes, allowing new water to work its way into your pipes. If the water is clear, it’s OK to use. If not, wait a few more minutes and check again. In some cases, there may be slight discoloration for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water; it does not affect the taste or water quality.
• Avoid washing laundry during scheduled testing times. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first.
• If pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.

Why does my water look funny after hydrant testing?

When a hydrant is opened, there will be temporary incidences of discolored water while fine sediment particles are flushed out. There is no health hazard associated with the discolored water. Allow a few hours for discoloration to dissipate. To verify water is clear, run your cold-water tap for a few minutes.
For more information, call Philomath Fire & Rescue at 541-360-0030 or Public Works Department at 541-929-3579 if water discoloration persists.