East Orange, NJ, September 24, 2018: The East Orange Fire Division, in cooperation with the East Orange Water Department, will begin annual fire hydrant testing on Monday, October 1, 2018. East Orange firefighters will test each of the city’s roughly 1,200 fire hydrants to ensure that they work properly. Testing will be done Monday through Thursday between the hours of 9:30am-4:30pm.

While testing hydrants, the water may become brownish in color due to sediment in the pipes being stirred from the amount of water being flowed through the main line. If this occurs, residents should simply run the tap for a few moments until the water clears. Residents should postpone doing laundry for several hours if hydrants are being tested in their area.

If water appears brownish and does not return to normal after running the tap for a few minutes, residents should contact the East Orange Water Department at 973-266-8869.

Firefighters will remove the caps, clean and oil them, and then operate the hydrant to allow water to flow from each hydrant. While testing is in progress, residents should be aware of the following:

• Firefighters will work in close proximity to the roadway. Motorists are urged to slow down for their safety and the safety of the firefighters.
• Large amounts of water may be released onto the roadway. Again, motorists are urged to slow down as the water can accumulate and cause vehicles to hydroplane.
• Firefighters will work hard to minimize any damage to planting in the area of the fire hydrant; however, property owners are advised to trim plants and bushes that block the hydrant from being visible to firefighters.

For more information, please call the East Orange Fire Department at 973-266-5507.

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