40 • A P R I L 2 0 1 3
COMMUNITY LIVING
11 – 5 Y MA
HEMLOCK NEWS
2013
Water gushes from the hydrant for several minutes until a visual inspection verifies that the water is clean and the hydrant can be closed.
Spring Cleaning For The Water Company
The Hemlock Farms Water Company will be conducting its spring Hydrant Flushing Program beginning Monday, April 22, and lasting approximately 10 working days. All work will be conducted between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. The Hydrant Flushing Program is being conducted as a routine maintenance procedure to help ensure the sanitary conditions of our water distribution system. Residents should draw water for drinking and cooking purposes prior to the flushing time. Should you have any questions about this activity, please feel free to call our office: 570/775-4200 x 113. Thank you for your cooperation. Thomas J. Sekula Water Company Supervisor
solve the problem of stained clothing from the washing machine and discolored sinks, tubs and dishwashers. Should your clothes get discolored after washing them, do not put them in the dryer. Make sure your water has cleared up and re-wash the clothes.
CA
Fire hydrant flushing is an annual task of the HFCA Water Company. The Community has more than 300 fire hydrants and more than 600 valves that lead to the main pipes underground. Every year, the process begins by closing valves and opening hydrants to remove accumulated sediment in the lines. When first opened, the hydrant gushes copper-colored water—water with sediment. The water is permitted to flow for several minutes. Samples are taken by staff during the process, and when the water is clean, the hydrant is closed. Unfortunately, each time a water line is disturbed to accomplish these efforts, the homes in the area will experience water that is discolored, cloudy and contains particles of rust that break away from the inside of the pipes. In some cases this has been severe but in most cases the water clears up in a short time. An effective way to avoid this water from entering appliances, tubs and sinks is to open an outside spigot before using your water again and allowing the water to run for 15 to 20 minutes. Collect the last gallon or so in a pail or clear jug to observe the condition of the water. This will clean the water in the lateral and service lines coming into your home and, except in extreme conditions, will
It’s Time for our Spring Cleaning!
HF
By HELEN YALE, Assistant to the Community Manager, and KATHIE WAIBEL, Hemlock News Assistant
What do you know about H2O?
To schedule seasonal water service turn-on, please contact the Water Company at 570/775-4200 x113, 24 to 48 hours before your return to Hemlock Farms. Someone MUST be present in your home for the turn-on appointment.