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Please be advised that the City’s Public Works Water/Wastewater Division will be completing City Wide fire flow and C-factor testing between August 6 and August 22. The purpose of this program is to collect information and data that will feed into the City’s Water Servicing Masterplan scheduled to commence in the fall of 2024.
As indicated, this will be City wide program and due to hydrant flushing water discolouration may occur. Should anyone received calls or have any questions please see information below or contact our Water/Wastewater Division.
Below are some facts should anyone receive calls regarding the program.
What is Fire Flow Testing - Fire flow testing is a practice that is used to determine the flows produced by a particular fire hydrant for Fire fighting purposes, development, expansion, and asset management.
When – Starting Tuesday August 6, 2024 to August 22, 2024.
Who – Flowmetrix and 3BP along side City staff. Note: Two drinking water licenced City operators will be on site to assist with the operation of the system.
"I have Dirty Water” – Homeowners may experience discoloured water because of the high velocity flushing. This is caused by fast moving water displacing tuberculation and biofilm inside the water main that would not normally be disturbed during normal operation and flows in the watermain. Operators will be flushing hydrants after each test to ensure turbidity and chlorine levels are representative of the distribution system. Should residents experience discoloured water into their plumbing system inside the home, please advise users to flush cold water tap at the closest point of entry (POE) into the home or facility. This could be a laundry tub or taps in the basement of home or business. Advise users to avoid opening hot water taps or taps furthest from the POE to prevent distributing discoloured water throughout the plumbing system. It is recommended to continue internal flushing until water is clear.
Is discoloured water harmful or pose concern? – No, discoloured water is only aesthetically unpleasing however does NOT pose health concerns and is safe for use.
Questions? Call the Engineering and Operations Centre at 905-835-2000.
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