Get Ready for Birmingham's Annual Fire Hydrant Flow Testing

The city of Birmingham will begin conducting its annual flow testing of city fire hydrants beginning May 1, and will continue to do so throughout the month of May.

The flow tests about a third of the city's hydrants each year. This testing provides the department with the flow pressure and volume of the water expected from each hydrant. Additionally, the testing reveals hydrants with mechanical problems.

In 2012, the fire department will by flow testing hydrants in Birmingham's east side, both north and south of Maple Road. The Rail District will also be impacted.

Flow testing may, however, cause water in the immediate area to appear rust colored. According to the fire department:

• The rust-colored water does not pose a health problem.
• To clear up the problem, run the water for 15-20 minutes. Do not use hot water; this will prevent rusty water from entering your hot water tank.
• If the water does not clear up, contact the city's Water Department at the , 248-530-1700.
• If the rusty water affects your laundry, you may purchase oxalic acid or other commercial products for taking rust out of clothes from area drugstores and hardware stores.

The fire department will conduct the flow testing Monday through Thursday between 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Flow testing will not occur on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.