Fort Mitchell Fire Department will start its annual fire hydrant testing rounds in April or May. They aim to test every hydrant annually for clogs and other malfunctions.
Fort Mitchell Fire Department Chief Dave Slusser explained more about hydrant testing purposes and methods to LINK nky.
“Hydrants need to deliver enough water at the right pressure to effectively fight fires,” Slusser said. “Testing helps measure the water flow and pressure, ensuring the hydrant can handle the demands of firefighting operations.”
If Slusser or his team find a hydrant operating ineffectively, they report it to the Northern Kentucky Water District.
“As an added benefit, testing hydrants allows our firefighters to become more familiar with their locations.”
Slusser also told LINK that while hydrant testing will impact residents minimally, they should be aware.
“Residents may experience low water pressure and/or discolored water in homes around testing sites,” Slusser said.
The department will strive not to affect traffic.
“Our firefighters are aware of their surroundings when testing hydrants,” Slusser said. “Every attempt is made not to allow water to free flow into the roadway.”
Once Fort Mitchell has coordinated their testing with the Northern Kentucky Water District, they will have more specific dates for hydrant testing.