The Hot Springs Fire Department will begin its annual hydrant flow testing soon, as weather permits, beginning between 7 and 8 a.m. through 4 p.m. daily, with a goal to be completed by May 31, 2023.

The hydrant testing will begin on the north side of the city. Detailed notifications with specific areas being tested will be sent out through the City’s website (www.cityhs.net/news), Facebook (www.facebook.com/cityofhotsprings), Instagram (www.instagram.com/hotspringsgov), Nextdoor (https://nextdoor.com/agency/city-of-hot-springs) and  Twitter (www.twitter.com/hotspringsgov). The City’s CodeRED system will also be used to notify registered residents in areas where testing will be taking place. To register to receive CodeRED alerts, visit www.cityhs.net/CodeRED. 

Water customers in the immediate vicinity of the work may experience temporary discoloration of their water. If this takes place, customers are advised to clear the pipes in their home or business by running all the water faucets for a few minutes and to postpone laundry as the discolored water can stain clothes. This discoloration usually lasts no more than a few hours, affecting only the appearance of the water, not the taste or quality. If discoloration lasts more than 24 hours, contact the Utilities Service Center at 501-321-6200. 

During hydrant maintenance and testing, water lines are flushed in order to test hydrant flow and water pressure levels for fire control purposes. The process also helps maintain the integrity of the City’s water distribution system, flushing out sediment or deposits that may naturally occur over time.