A decorative web banner. On the banner is written the words, fire hydrants and flushing. A picture of a fire hydrant being flushed is included.

Fire hydrants are an important part of keeping Orangeville safe. We have nearly 1,000 hydrants located throughout the community for Orangeville fire to use during fire-related emergencies.

Hydrants must be:

  • accessible at all times
  • clear of snow during the winter
  • not blocked by yard decor or large items

A dark blue decorative line

Annual hydrant flushing program

Did you know? We flush hydrants for two different reasons—to make sure our hydrants are working properly and to maintain our watermain systems. Both programs begin during the spring to make sure proper water flow continues throughout the town all year.

Flushing is completed by Public Works staff between Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Watermain flushing

From the spring until fall, our Public Works staff flush the hydrants around Orangeville to maintain our watermain systems and keep our drinking water safe. 

This is done to:

  • prevent possible taste or odour problems
  • remove built-up sediment like rust particles or sand

Fire hydrant maintenance

We open all fire hydrants at least once each year to make sure they are working. Fire hydrants are inspected and maintenance starts in the spring and is completed in the fall. 

We flush to:

  • make sure the hydrants are working
  • check pressure accuracy

A person uses tools to turn on a fire hydrant attached to a hose3 things homeowners and property owners should know:

  • The sound/sight of rushing water is normal during hydrant flushing.
  • Flushing may cause discolouration (dark or brown tinted water) from the loose rust or sand. Check your water before using it.
  • To remove discolouration, run your tap until the water flow is clear.