Joint Base MDL Semi-Annual Hydrant Flushing Program Published April 20, 2012 By 87th Civil Engineer Squadron JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- The 87th Civil Engineer Squadron through the base operations contractor, Pride Industries, flushes the fire hydrants every spring and fall. The hydrant-flushing program is very important to the maintenance of the bases water distribution system. During this process, it is not uncommon for a yellow, brown or reddish tint to appear in the water. Harmless mineral deposits settle in the water mains, and flushing the system stirs the deposits causing the discoloration. Flushing removes the sediments from the mains and also serves the following purposes: · Improves water quality in the distribution system. · Verifies the proper operation of fire hydrants and valves · Helps find weaknesses in the water system · Checks for closed valves and weak flows in the water mains · Verifies adequate fire flows for fire fighting What should I do when the flushing is in my area? If you see the crew flushing a hydrant on your street, avoid running tap water and using the washing machine or the dishwasher until the flushing is completed. Please drive carefully, if you see the flushing crew working in the area. What Could I expect before and after flushing? · If tap water is used during flushing, it could come out discolored and contain sediment. 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 clear, 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 impact the taste or water quality. · The water may also have a milky appearance. This is due to tiny air bubbles and will dissipate out and is not harmful. · Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first. Hot water tanks can hold discolored water for some time after the cold water runs clear. · If pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles. There may be a temporary drop in water pressure. · Flush your hot water tanks, by running the hot water tap for a few minutes after the cold water clears. · You may notice a more pronounced chlorine taste or odor in the water during springtime flushing. This is due to the chlorine increased slightly in order to help in the process of cleaning the mains. · The chlorine will dissipate when water is left in an open container in the refrigerator. Letting water in a glass sit for a moment will also take care of air bubbles that are stirred up during flushing and cause the milky appearance. The Flushing schedule is based on designated areas and includes the base family housing is included in the following area sections: Hydrant flushing is set to occur between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. on the following days: April 22 to 23 · 01-99 · 0100 · 0200 April 23 to 25 · 1500 · 1600 April 25 to 28 · 1100 · 1200 · 1400 · 7200 April 28 to 30 · 0800 · 2100 · 5900 April 30 to May 2 · 3100 · 3200 · 3500 · 3600 May 2 to 4 · 3300 · 3400 · 5100 · 5200 · 6000 May 4 to 6 · 5300 · 5400 · 6500 · 6600 May 6 to 8 · 5500 · 5600 · 6700 · 6800 · 6900 May 8 to 10 · 4200 · 4300 · 4400 Range areas: · 8100 · 8300 · 8400 May 10 Address any Areas still needing attention.