As a part of the city's ongoing commitment to maintaining high water quality and supply, the St. Charles Water Division will conduct a hydrant flush beginning Monday, November 16, 2009 through Friday, November 20, 2009.  The three areas affected will be:

. Elm Point Road from Elm Street to Zumbehl Road.

. Truman Boulevard from Ehlmann Road up to and including Point West Business Park.

. Mexico Road from Muegge Road to the South Service Road.

Cloudy water and pressure fluctuations may occur in these areas during the time of the actual flushing maneuver.  If you do experience cloudy water, please flush from a cold water line only, preferably a bath tub or outside hose bib.  This should clear any cloudiness or discolored water.

For more information, refer to the following Frequently Asked Questions provided below,  or access the city's Water Divison online at www.stcharlescitymo.gov or call 636-949-3366.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Why is the Water Department flushing hydrants?

Hydrant flushing is an important part of maintaining the City’s water distribution system. Flushing hydrants are one way the Water Department maintains the highest quality water possible. Sediments will “settle out” and deposit in the water mains. Occasionally after a period of time, sediments will get stirred up and in turn cause cloudy or discolored water. Flushing removes the sediments.

Do these sediments make our water unsafe?

No, calcium carbonate is naturally occurring in our source water. As a part of the water treatment process it is removed. The finest particles may settle out in the water mains. The City of St. Charles Water Division routinely tests all areas of the city to ensure safe water supply.

What should I do if water department crews are flushing in my area?

If water department crews are flushing, refrain from using water at that time. After flushing is complete, flushing from a cold water line, preferably a bath tub or outside hose bib should clear the service line after about five minutes. If after fifteen minutes of flushing your service line it does not clear up, call the water department at 636-949-3366. Check to make sure the water is clear before doing laundry.

My water is cloudy after flushing, what should I do?

Draw a sample of water from the tap into a clear glass. If the air bubbles rise to the top and the glass is clear after three to five minutes, the issue is air in the water. This is typical after large scale flushing. It is completely harmless and will clear on it’s own (in the main lines). If it does not clear up after a couple of hours, call the Water Division at 636-949-3366.

I have low water pressure, is this normal?

Yes, low water pressure is temporary while flushing hydrants. After flushing is completed, water pressure will return to normal. If the water pressure at your residence does not return to normal, first check the screens on the faucets. They may contain sediment flushed from the main lines. Check more than one line. If one line is normal and the other is not, the issue is most likely not related to the pressure in the city mains.

My area is not listed in the above press release, can I expect flushing in my area?

Yes, the water division has carefully mapped out the areas for flushing. Flushing in certain areas must be completed before moving to the next area. Public notification will take place before scheduled flushing.