The City of Cartersville Fire Department is partnering with the City of Cartersville Water Department again over the next several weeks as the fire hydrant testing process begins for 2019. Since hydrants do not get used on a regular basis, testing the hydrants helps identify any problems so they can be corrected, saving the Fire Department valuable time in the event of a fire. Accurate and current hydrant flow data also effects the communities’ insurance rating that has a direct bearing on the cost of residential and commercial insurance policies. This is one of the contributing tasks that helped reduce Cartersville’s ISO rating to a Class One. This ISO rating is the highest that can be achieved and less than one percent of the communities nationwide obtain this classification.
Common problems that are encountered during the annual hydrant testing program include obstruction by shrubs, out of service valves, caps that cannot be removed, inadequate water pressure, insufficient water supply, or broken lines. These problems, if not corrected, can cause major issues for firefighters during an emergency. Testing of fire hydrants also has a long-term benefit, as it reduces iron deposits in the water system.
With over 1,400 fire hydrants in the City of Cartersville, the testing process has recently been re-evaluated and modifications have been made. The goal is to complete one-fifth of hydrants each year, establishing a five year rotation for accurate flow data for the Water System. This modified rotation will also conserve water. Testing will always take place Monday through Thursday and will be completed by noon to allow ample time for any challenges that are encountered. The City is working hard to keep all residents and businesses informed of when testing will be taking place in their area. Signs with dates will be placed in the applicable areas prior to testing, phone messages will be sent out using the Connect CTY system, and the media will receive the schedules ahead of time.
This process should not cause any inconvenience to the public. Occasionally, however, testing the hydrants does stir up some sediment in the pipes, causing some minor discoloration. If this occurs, the water is perfectly safe for drinking, but run your water until it is clear prior to washing any laundry. The City appreciates the public’s patience when this critical testing is taking place in their area.
Attached is a list of hydrants that will be tested in the upcoming week:
Monday: Parr Wade Road, Wesley Trace, and 14, 34, & 50 Cotton Bend.
Tuesday: 62, 76, & 90 Cotton Bend, Briarwood Lane, Grassdale Road, and Sharps Vineyard
Wednesday: Oakdale Drive, Jones Mill Road, and Dogwood Drive.
Thursday: Camillia Lane, Meadow Lane, Pettit Road, Skyview Circle, and Benham Circle.