Public Communications serves as a communications link between the city of Columbia’s municipal government and the citizens. The Public Communications Office coordinates several programs that are designed to link citizens with their city government.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Connie Kacprowicz, Utility Services Specialist - (573) 874-7325 or
Floyd Turner, Manager of Water Operations - (573) 874-6229 or Battalion Chief Steven E. Sapp - (573) 874-7557

Fire hydrant testing begins this week

COLUMBIA, MO (June 9) - On Friday, June 11, the Columbia Fire Department will begin its annual hydrant testing program to make sure the city’s hydrants work properly in the event they are needed for an emergency. The testing will continue through the middle of August.

During the testing procedure, the city’s fire hydrants are tested for adequate flow and pressure. This can occasionally cause temporary problems with a customer’s water service, such as low pressure or discolored water. The water becomes discolored because the sediment in the pipes is stirred up during the flushing procedure. If the water becomes discolored, customers should avoid doing laundry. The water will usually return to a normal color after the water has run for a few minutes. The water will continue to be safe for consumption. Commercial fire alarm systems might be temporarily affected by the low pressure.

This is a cooperative program between the Fire Department and Columbia Water & Light. If customers experience prolonged problems with their water, Columbia Water & Light can be contacted by calling 874-6229 or 875-2555 after hours.

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