What will happen if fire hydrants are turned on or off too quickly?
This will cause “water hammer”, which is a pressure surge or wave when water in motion is forced to stop or change direction suddenly. The pressure wave can cause major problems, from noise and vibrations to pipe collapse. In home plumbing, this is experienced as a loud bang resembling a hammering noise. Utility Department and Fire Department employees have received instruction on how to operate fire hydrant valves slowly to avoid water hammer.

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1. Why does the water system need to be routinely flushed?
2. Is the Utility Department the only ones that flush the lines?
3. What should I do when I see county utility crews flushing hydrants in my area?
4. What should I do after the flushing?
5. What should I do if my water pressure or volume seems low after flushing?
6. Why does the water look funny after hydrant flushing?
7. Is it OK to drink sediment - laden or discolored water during temporary disturbance events?
8. How is the flushing program related to hydrant testing by the fire departments?
9. What is the silt in the water system after flushing?
10. What will happen if fire hydrants are turned on or off too quickly?