Keeping Harrison's Water Clean: The Role of Fire Hydrant Flushing

Starting Monday, April 7, 2025, the Town of Harrison's Water Department will initiate a crucial maintenance program aimed at ensuring the purity and safety of its water supply. The six-week project involves the flushing of fire hydrants across Harrison, scheduled to take place nightly from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., concluding on May 16, 2025. The Water Department has not released a detailed schedule, but they will likely provide details as the Fire Hydrant Flushing progresses. You can also use our Community Board to alert your neighbors when the flushing comes to your neighborhood.

Why Hydrant Flushing Is Necessary

Fire hydrant flushing is a vital preventive maintenance task that serves multiple purposes. Primarily, it removes sediments and minerals that accumulate inside the water mains, which can affect water quality and flow. This process is essential not only for maintaining water clarity and taste but also for ensuring that fire hydrants operate effectively in emergencies.

The removal of these deposits also helps to prevent corrosion and deterioration within the pipes, extending the lifespan of the water infrastructure and reducing the likelihood of costly repairs.

Regular flushing ensures that firefighters have access to hydrants with adequate pressure and flow rate, crucial during firefighting operations. If the Water Department finds a malfunctioning Fire Hydrant it can pass along the information to the Harrison Fire Department and initiate a plan to repair the Fire Hydrant.

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Why Flushing Takes Place at Night

Conducting hydrant flushing during the late hours minimizes disruptions to the community. During these times, there is less demand for water, which helps to maintain stable water pressure across the system. Additionally, any discolored water produced by the flushing process, typically safe to drink but aesthetically displeasing, is less likely to impact residents during nighttime hours when water usage is lower. Safe is a relative word, and anyone drinking Town of Harrison water from the tap without filtration should note that the Town of Harrison has plans to replace lead water pipes and that although the water may technically be safe to drink, it’s not necessarily free of other metals acquired in its transportation through water pipes.

Residents might notice temporary changes in water pressure or slight discoloration during the flushing period. These effects are normal and temporary, as the high-velocity water flow used in flushing—particularly with techniques like unidirectional flushing—effectively scours the pipes, removing biofilm and ensuring the entire system functions optimally.

For any concerns, residents are encouraged to contact the Harrison Water Department directly. This flushing program is part of the town's commitment to maintaining a high-quality water system and ensuring public health and safety.

By understanding and supporting these maintenance efforts, the community of Harrison can continue to enjoy clean and safe water while ensuring preparedness for any emergencies.

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