City of St. Charles sets spring hydrant flushing schedule

The City of St. Charles will be performing its spring hydrant flushing March 19 to April 20. Please note that hydrant flushing could temporarily cause rusty-looking water, even for residences outside the particular flushing area. The discoloration is caused by minerals that get stirred up in the water mains.

The Public Works Water Division performs hydrant flushing in the spring and fall as part of the regular maintenance to the city's water distribution system. Flushing helps remove mineral buildup, which improves water quality and ensures the water flow is ready for emergency use.

St. Charles is divided into quadrants for hydrant flushing: northwest, southwest, southeast, and northeast. Main Street (Route 64) divides the north/south quadrants, and the Fox River divides the east/west quadrants.

For more information and a list of frequently asked questions related to hydrant flushing, visit www.stcharlesil.gov.

The spring hydrant flushing schedule will be:

• Northwest: March 19-23

• Southwest: March 26-30

• Southeast: April 2-6

• Northeast (west of Dunham Road): April 9-13

• Northeast (east of Dunham Road): April 16-20

Please watch for signs announcing hydrant flushing. Flushing may start as early at 5 a.m. and continue through 4 p.m.

Please note water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing; however it is best to limit your water use, if possible. If you notice rusty-colored water during hydrant flushing, you may want to take the following steps:

• Wait until flushing has subsided then run the cold water tap in your bathtub or utility sink until it runs clear (or in 10 minute increments).

• Wait to do laundry. Rusty water may stain laundry. If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.

The city offers stain remover at no cost to residents at the following facilities:

• Public works, 1405 S. Seventh Ave.;

• City hall, reception desk, 2 East Main St.;

• Police department, 211 N. Riverside Ave.

For more information, contact the Public Works Department at (630) 377-4405 or pw@stcharlesil.gov.