Water flushing starts this week in Ladysmith

Starting Wednesday, Ladysmith Public Works will be completing its annual water main flushing program.

If you think there might be something in the water, you may be right — but it’s only temporary.

Starting Wednesday, Ladysmith Public Works will be completing its annual water main flushing program to refresh the town’s water and remove any sediment in the pipes.

During the flushing period, water users may experience some discoloration of the water supply. However, running a cold water tap for a short period will help to restore water quality to normal.

“They might experience some discoloured water for a while, but they just run their water for a bit and it goes away,” said Curtis Baker, Utilities III / Chief Operator.

The process is completed by reversing directional flow in the pipes, pumped by fire hydrants.

“We move it from the top where the water comes in and flush our way down the hill, basically,” Baker said.

Residents who are dependent on medical equipment using water can call the Public Works department for their area’s specific flushing dates.

Baker said the program provides an opportunity for residents to clean the screens on their faucets and the pressure-reducing valve where water enters the house, which should always be cleaned once a year anyway.

The flushing program will take place between Feb. 22 and May 30.

To contact Public Works with questions, call 250-245-3995.

Ladysmith Chronicle