The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on May 13, 2019 in the area of KSU AG Research Hwy 183 Bypass to Bison Rd between 240th and 250th Ave., the area from Vine St. to Commerce between 8th St. and Reservation Rd. and the area of Canterbury to Commerce between 8th St. and 13th St. This is part of a coordinated effort by the City of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually.
Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains.
Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer. All reasonable efforts will be taken to minimize the inconvenience to the public. Drivers are asked to avoid driving through water discharging from a fire hydrant during the short flushing period.