B.G. water discoloration possible in hydrant work
8/27/2012BOWLING GREEN -- Fire hydrant flushing throughout Bowling Green may cause water discoloration that could stain light-colored laundry the next few weeks, city officials cautioned.
The flushing, done between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. weekdays, dislodges rust and sediments that accumulate in fire hydrants and pipes. During flushing hours, residents should run taps briefly before using cold water, and if discoloration is discovered should flush the cold-water line briefly until it clears, officials said.
The discolored water is not harmful to drink, but may stain light-colored clothes, so residents are advised to avoid washing clothes during flushing hours. Laundry rust remover is available during the same working hours at the city water distribution office, 324 N. Maple St.
Once the flushing program is complete, residents should flush hot-water tanks to remove accumulations. Hydrant flushing ensures hydrant function and high-quality water, officials said.