(KAIR)--The Atchison Fire Department announced that it began its annual Fire Hydrant Inspection program on September 18, 2017. This testing is conducted annually to ensure that fire hydrants throughout the community are in proper working order. Weather permitting, crews will be flushing hydrants Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and maintenance will continue into October, if necessary. The flushing operation may result in brief periods of reduced water pressure, especially for those customers located in low pressure areas, or discolored water. Residents are asked to run their water until it clears before drinking or doing laundry and refrain from washing white or light colored clothing during the flushing period.

Flushing hydrants:

• Confirms that the hydrant is operating correctly;

• Documents the amount of flow and pressure at the hydrant for firefighting purposes; and

• Clears the lines of any sediment material.

When the flushing operation is complete, normal water pressure and clear water should return. If you experience discoloration and rust particles in your water, locate the farthest and highest cold water faucet in your home from the water meter. If there is an aerator, remove it, and turn on the cold water faucet until the water runs clear. If the water is still discolored after running the cold water for 10 minutes, please turn off the faucet and check it again one hour later. Should a problem persist, please call the Public Works Department between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at 367-5561.