Fire Hydrant Testing
4/18/2014 • 10 years ago
The information on this page may be outdated as it was published 10 years ago.
Fire Hydrant Testing through June 30
May Cause Water Discoloration & Clothing Stains
Cambridge Water and Fire departments will be conducting annual fire hydrant maintenance and testing weekdays between 9 a.m.-2 p.m., beginning April 28 through June 30th. Hydrant testing helps ensure maximum operability. This process can disturb sediment that naturally occurs in the water piping system and may cause discoloration of water from faucets and toilets for several hours after testing. Discolored water does not usually present a health hazard though concerned residents should avoid drinking it. Check your water before doing laundry as the discolored water may stain clothes. The Water Department can provide a wash additive to remove stains. Please see the schedule below or call the Cambridge Fire Department at 617-349-4921 between 8-8:45 a.m. for daily test locations. For questions on water quality, call Ed Dowling, Cambridge Water Department at 617-349-4780. To report discolored water call the main Water Department number at 617-349-4770. Below are general reference dates for Cambridge neighborhoods:
Harvard Square Engine 1 April 28 – May 9
Central Square Engine 2 April 28 – May 9
River Street Area Engine 6 May 12 – May 23
Concord Ave Area Engine 8 May 12 – May 23
East Cambridge Engine 3 May 27 – June 6
North Cambridge Engine 4 May 27 – June 6
Inman Square Engine 5 June 9 – June 30
West Cambridge Engine 9 June 9 – June 30
Please note that these dates for testing remain flexible due to weather and Fire Department activities.