City Begins Summer Hydrant Flushing Program

The City of Owen Sound will be performing annual fire hydrant flushing between now and September. 

Flushing fire hydrants each year ensures they are operational and improves water quality. While flushing is happening, residents may experience low water pressure or cloudy or rusty water. This is normal and expected when flushing older cast iron water mains.   

Running a cold water tap for 5-30 minutes should clear the water. If that does not work, please call the City Water Department at 519-376-4274. 

The flushing will begin in the areas nearest the Water Treatment Plant and proceed gradually to the system’s outer limits. 

For more information, please contact Lara Widdifield, Director of Public Works and Engineering, at 519-376-1440 ext. 1201 or email lwiddifield@owensound.ca. 

Quick Facts: 

• The City of Owen Sound Water system has approximately 675 fire hydrants. 
• The fire hydrants have coloured reflective rings that indicate fire flow. Red is the lowest fire flow, and blue is the highest fire flow. 

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