The Hattiesburg Fire Department began its annual fire hydrant testing program on Monday, complying with requirements set by the Mississippi State Rating Bureau.
“Hydrant testing is an essential part of maintaining our fire readiness and ensuring public safety,” said Fire Chief Sherrocko Stewart.
Each fire station has been assigned specific blocks of hydrants to test throughout the city. The department will release a weekly schedule, and crews will continue testing hydrants in their designated areas until the program is complete.
“Our crews will follow a detailed schedule, covering assigned areas each week until all hydrants have been tested,” Stewart said.
The testing evaluates the pressure and flow of each hydrant within city limits to ensure compliance with state fire protection standards. It also helps the department maintain its Class 3 fire rating.
During testing, residents may experience road closures, traffic detours, low water pressure, or discolored water. These effects are typical due to hydrant flushing. Anyone experiencing extended low pressure, loss of service, or discolored water should contact the city at 601-545-4500.
Pine Belt resident Corey Trotter expressed support for the program.
“I work in the city and have family who live here,” Trotter said. “Seeing the fire department conducting hydrant testing brings a sense of safety and preparedness from the city. Being prepared is always a good and necessary thing.”
Hattiesburg resident Todd Jackson expressed similar sentiments.
“I’m okay being a little inconvenienced if it means the city is doing what it need to keep us safe,” he said.
A list of frequently asked questions and a weekly schedule of test sites, updated each Friday, will be posted on the City of Hattiesburg and Fire Department’s Facebook pages.
The schedule is subject to change based on emergency call volume and weather conditions. Public notifications will be made if adjustments are necessary.
During hydrant flushing, water pressure in the tested area may drop temporarily. Water discoloration may also occur as sediment in the water mains is disturbed. Officials advise residents to run faucets for a few minutes until the water clears.
City officials assure that discolored water is safe to drink, as it is caused by harmless mineral deposits stirred during the flushing process. However, residents are encouraged not to wash laundry while water is discolored. If discoloration occurs, running water throughout the home for 15 minutes is recommended. Before washing laundry, residents should check the water’s clarity by collecting a sample from a washing machine in a clear container.
If laundry is stained due to discolored water, city officials recommend running an empty cycle to clear the machine and rewashing affected clothes. Avoid using a dryer before clothes are rewashing to prevent stains from setting.
For more information and updated test schedules, visit the City and Fire Department’s social media pages.
