Kalispell launches annual hydrant testing

Fire hydrant testing has started once again, but it shouldn’t be an inconvenience for residents, according to the Kalispell Fire Department.

“There are quite a few hydrants in the city,” said Assistant Fire Chief Dave Dedman, who said the testing, which involves inspecting and opening a port to allow water to flow out, shouldn’t cause disruptions.

He said all fire hydrants within city limits will be tested, which could take all summer.

Dedman said that the tests can temporarily stir up iron deposits in the water lines, discoloring water in the testing area, and recommends people open their faucets until it clears up.

“There is no health hazard associated with it,” he said, “more than likely no one will notice.”

National fire standards recommend testing be done to check for proper operations of fire hydrants along with ensuring an adequate water supply to fight fires.

The flow tests, which began Monday in the Northridge area, will be conducted by the line crew during normal business hours, including predawn hours when necessary to minimize impact on traffic flow.

According to Dedman, most hydrants do not get used regularly. The testing goals are to identify problems and have them corrected by the water department, saving the fire department valuable time in the event of a fire.

Commonly, hydrants are obstructed by brush or other growth, valves are out of service, caps cannot be removed, there is inadequate water pressure, inadequate water supply and sometimes broken lines.

The long-term benefits of fire hydrant testing also include reducing iron deposits in the water system and improving its overall quality.