The Cartersville Fire Department will be partnering with the Cartersville Water Department over the next several weeks as the fire hydrant testing process begins for 2011. Since hydrants do not get used on a regular basis, testing the hydrants helps identify any problems so they can be corrected, saving the fire department valuable time in the event of a fire. Accurate and current hydrant flow data also effects the communities insurance rating that has a direct bearing on the cost of residential and commercial insurance policies. Common problems include obstruction by shrubs, out of service valves, caps that cannot be removed, inadequate water pressure, insufficient water supply or broken lines. Testing of fire hydrants also has a long-term benefit, as it reduces iron deposits in the water system.

With more than 1,400 fire hydrants in Cartersville, the testing process has recently been re-evaluated and modifications have been made. The goal is to complete one-third of hydrants each year, establishing a three-year rotation for accurate flow data for the water system; this is the second year of this rotation. This modified rotation will also conserve water. Testing will always take place Monday through Friday and will be completed by noon to allow ample time for any challenges that are encountered. The city is working to keep all residents and businesses informed of when testing will be taking place in their area. Signs with dates will be placed in the applicable areas prior to testing and phone messages will be sent out using the Connect CTY system.

This process should not cause any inconvenience to the public, however, occasionally, testing the hydrants does stir up some sediment in the pipes, causing some minor discoloration. If this occurs, the water is perfectly safe for drinking, but run your water until it is clear prior to washing any laundry.

Today

114 Walnut Drive

108 Walnut Drive

6 Red Oak Drive

100 Walnut Drive

25 Walnut Drive

10 Walnut Drive

2 Walnut Drive

117 Maple Drive

112 Maple Drive

109 Maple Drive

102 Maple Drive

9 Maple Drive

2 Maple Drive



May 18

179 Old Mill Road/East of Etowah

1250 New Sub across from Walnut

1249 New Sub across from Walnut

184 Old Mill Road

186 Old Mill Road

311 Old Mill Road

302 Etowah Drive

310 Etowah Drive

320 Etowah Drive/behind school

22 Ridgewood Drive

6 Ridgewood Drive



May 19

Town & Country Drive

106,105,104,103

Etowah Drive

62,978



Etowah & Ridgewood

33 Town & Country Drive

25 Town & Country Drive

19 Town & Country Drive

5 Town & Country Drive

508 Etowah Drive

Etowah Entrance to Dellinger Park