JB MDL set to begin semi-annual hydrant-flushing program Published Sept. 28, 2011 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 base's water-distribution system. It is not uncommon for a yellow, brown or reddish tint to appear in the water during this process. Harmless mineral deposits settle in the water main. 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 Typically the Base advertises the program two weeks prior to starting. What should I do when the flushing is in my area? If you see the Pride Industries crew flushing a hydrant on your street, avoid running tap water or using appliances such as washing machine or the dishwasher, until the flushing is completed. 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 discolored water is encountered, 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 alright 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. 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 the faucet screens for trapped particles. There may be a temporary drop in water pressure. Flush hot water tanks by running the hot water tap for a few minutes after the cold water clears. A more pronounced chlorine taste or odor may be noticed in the water during springtime flushing. This is because free chlorine has a more noticeable chlorine taste and odor. This will dissipate when water is left in an open container in the refrigerator. Letting water sit in a glass for a moment will also take care of air bubbles that are stirred up during flushing and cause the milky appearance. Flushing schedule is based on designated areas from Oct. 10 through 28 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Listed below are the dates and times flushing will occur on the Dix family housing area: Areas: 01-99, 0100, 0200, 2200 Monday Oct. 10, 10 p.m. through Tuesday Oct. 11, 6 a.m. Areas: 1500, 1600 Tuesday Oct. 11, 10 p.m. through Thursday Oct. 13, 6 a.m. Areas: 1100, 1200, 1400, 7200 Thursday Oct. 13, 10 p.m. through Sunday Oct. 16, 6 a.m. Areas: 0800, 2100, 5900 Sunday Oct. 16, 10 p.m. through Tuesday Oct. 18, 6 a.m. Areas: 3100, 3200, 3500, 3600 Tuesday Oct. 18, 10 p.m. through Thursday Oct. 20, 6 a.m. Areas: 3300, 3400, 5100, 5200, 6000 Thursday Oct. 20, 10 p.m. through Saturday Oct. 22, 6 a.m. Areas: 5300, 5400, 6500, 6600 Saturday Oct. 22, 10 p.m. through Monday Oct. 24, 6 a.m. Areas: 5500, 5600, 6700, 6800, 6900 Monday Oct. 24, 10 p.m. through Wednesday Oct. 26, 6 a.m. Areas: 4200, 4300, 4400 Range Road Area: 8100, 8300, 8400 Wednesday Oct. 26, 10 p.m. through Friday Oct. 28, 6 a.m. Areas still needing attention Friday Oct. 28, 10 p.m. through Saturday Oct. 29, 6 a.m.