Submitted by the Town of Friday Harbor

The Town of Friday Harbor will be flushing fire hydrants Thursday, Jan. 7 through Friday, Jan. 8.

Homes and businesses nearby may be affected with brief water discoloration, cloudiness or slight pressure fluctuations. Town Crew will do everything in their power to keep these conditions to a minimum.

This testing part of the Town’s Water Comprehensive Plan and is essential to assure that hydrants are operating efficiently for fire protection purposes. Along with maintaining fire ratings, testing monitors the health and quality of the town’s water system, identifies weak areas in the system and removes minerals and sediment that accumulate in distribution lines and hydrants.

There are no known health concerns associated with the minerals that get stirred up as a result of line flushing.

Customer Tips:

• Avoid running your tap water and using the washing machine or dishwasher while crews are flushing in your area.

• If discolored water occurs, simply run the cold water for a few minutes until it clears. This will allow any sediment to work its way through your pipes.

• Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher. If your laundry becomes stained, do not put your laundry in the dryer. Rewash clothes using detergent.

• Check faucet screens for trapped particles if water pressure or volume seems low after flushing is completed.

If you have any questions or concerns, or should at any time notice a hydrant in need of repair or running unattended, please contact Town Hall at 360-378-2810 or the Water Department at 360-378-8353.