If you’ve seen Milwaukee’s fire hydrants open and gushing water onto the streets this summer, it’s most likely a regular inspection by Milwaukee Water Works.
The annual flushing began in early May and is expected to continue through early October. Milwaukee Water Works can inspect about 800 hydrants a week and typically look at 10,000 every year, said spokesperson Betsy Vornholt.
In early June, work is mainly focused on Milwaukee’s south side.
Flushing hydrants maintains fresh water in the municipal system and acts as a regular checkup for firefighting operations and water quality reporting.
Crews fully open hydrants to test pressure, test for leaks, test the flow rate, make sure the shutoff works and inspect for general wear and tear.
Hydrants in disrepair are reported for maintenance and to local fire departments for emergency responses.
Chlorine tests are required for reports to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Finally, hydrants get repainted every 8 to ten years. Most are painted red with color-coded plastic rings for firefighters’ information. Here’s what each of those rings means.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: See an open fire hydrant in Milwaukee? It’s likely routine maintenance
Reporting by Caden Perry, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
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By Caden Perry, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel | USA TODAY Network
