Fire Hydrant Flow Testing
Starting Monday, May 4, the Birmingham Fire Department and the Department of Public Services will conduct the annual flow testing of the City’s hydrants. Flow testing is a critical infrastructure project that ensures the safety of residents by providing the flow pressure and volume of water that is expected from each hydrant. Additionally, it reveals hydrants with mechanical problems. Flow testing is one of the ways the City ensures hydrants are operable and give the proper water flow when needed.
Please note flow testing may cause water in the immediate area to appear rust colored. The City gives a few days warning to the areas that will be tested by placing signs at crossroad intersections. If you experience rust colored water, here’s helpful information:
1.
This condition DOES NOT pose a health problem.
2.
Normal running of COLD water in your home will soon clear up the problem. DO NOT USE HOT WATER. This will prevent rusty water from entering the hot water tank.
3.
If the rusty water affects your laundry, you may purchase “oxalic acid”, or commercial products for taking rust out of clothes, from local grocery, drug or hardware stores. Follow the product instructions for rewashing the clothes and the rust will be removed.
The Fire Department and Department of Public Services conducts flow testing in May, Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Download a map
that indicates the areas to be flowed. The areas shaded in gray will be tested in 2020; the white area without shading will be tested in 2021. Flow testing should be complete by the end of May. The Birmingham Fire Department and the Department of Public Services appreciate your patience as they work to ensure the safety of Birmingham’s residents. For more information, please contact the City at 248-530-1805.
