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By Carey Reeder | Managing Editor

The City of Clanton released a statement on Sept. 25 that highlighted the Clanton Fire Department conducting water main and fire hydrant flushing and testing throughout the city. CFD began the flushing and testing on Sept. 23 and it will continue until all hydrants in the city are flushed and tested.

Water main and fire hydrant flushing is an important part of the efforts by the Clanton Water & Sewer Department to have the safest and highest quality water possible for residents. By doing this, it reduces taste and odor issues in water, and results in a better appearance for the water. The flushing also allows the CFD to flow test hydrants to determine the capacity at each one in case they are needed in an emergency situation.

When the fire hydrants are opened to flush, there will be a temporary discoloration of the water as fine sediment particles are flushed out. Stanley Higgins, Director of Utilities for the City of Clanton, assures there is no health hazard associated with discolored water. After a few hours, the discoloration will subside, but to verify the water is clear, run the cold-water tap on your tub or exterior hose bibb for a few minutes.

Higgins urged all residents to use caution while traveling around the hydrant flushing crews, and while entering areas of water that may accumulate during flushing. For more information, contact the utilities department at 205-755-1105.