As part of ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the quality and safety of drinking water, City of Powell River will begin a water main flushing program in Cranberry June 10 that will continue through to mid-July.
“The plan is to flush the whole water system in the Cranberry area,” stated waterworks supervisor Wade Carter in a media release. “Flushing generally is conducted between 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. It takes about 30 minutes to flush each hydrant. While the hydrant is being flushed, the homes on that block may experience discoloured water or a drop in water pressure, but it should be minimal.”
Householders should limit or avoid using water during times when crews are flushing in their area, according to the release. Discoloured water should not be used for purposes that require clean water, such as food preparation, medical or dental procedures, and laundry. Drinking discoloured water should not make people sick or cause adverse health effects, but it may not smell, look or taste appealing, the release stated.
It is recommended that residents in affected neighbourhoods do not use the water or do laundry for about two hours after flushing, after which they could run a cold faucet for about five minutes to ensure the water is clear.
Commercial businesses may contact the public works department directly at 604.485.8657 for advance warning of flushing in their areas.
The release states that if residents experience little or no water pressure after crews have finished flushing in their area, to contact the city’s public works department at the number above.
Caution is taken to ensure the process causes as little disruption as possible. When city crews open fire hydrants for flushing, the water is immediately directed towards the storm sewer system to prevent water accumulations or flooding, according to the release. Storm sewer catch basins will be kept clear, so the water can drain with a minimum of backup.
"It's all part of a good water maintenance system," stated Carter. "Often, you won’t even be aware that flushing is taking place."
