Firefighters testing water pressure and flushing out sediments in a fire hydrant in 2020 on Trinity Drive. This year’s testing runs May 19 through Sept. 1 throughout the County. Photo by Carol A. Clark/ladailypost.com

COUNTY News:

The Los Alamos Fire Department (LAFD) will be testing fire hydrants throughout Los Alamos County May 19 through Sept. 1.

The purpose of testing is to ensure that the hydrants will provide an adequate water supply for fire suppression and to flush out sediments that have accumulated in the water distribution system over the past year.

These tests are part of the regular hydrant maintenance program and are conducted jointly with the Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities (DPU).

Residents will see LAFD firefighters and vehicles throughout the community releasing water through the hydrants while they are conducting these tests.

Residents may see some discoloration in their water due to the amount and volume of flowing water after nearby hydrants are tested. If this is the case, residents should run the cold-water spigot located outside their home for a few minutes. This will usually resolve the issue. It is also recommended that residents avoid washing laundry until the water runs clear.

Direct questions or concerns about this annual maintenance to the Los Alamos County Customer Care Center at 505.662.8333 or CustomerCare@lacnm.us.