Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) and the Cincinnati Fire Department (CFD) would like to remind citizens that this is the time of year for the Annual Spring Service – a time when all 14,000+ fire hydrants within the City of Cincinnati are checked and serviced by “flowing” pressurized water through the network of pipes.

What does this mean for citizens?

1. Safety: Spring Hydrant Service takes place every year to ensure all hydrants are in working condition and available for service in the event of an emergency. If an issue with a hydrant is observed, CFD will notify GCWW and the issue will be addressed as soon as possible.
2. Potentially “discolored” water: The servicing process may temporarily discolor water and make it look red or brown. GCWW & CFD acknowledge that citizens may be particularly sensitive to this condition.
3. Patience please: CFD always attempts to flush the water until it is clear. However, if water appears discolored, it is recommended to also “flush” home plumbing/pipes by running water from the tap for a few minutes until it becomes clear again. If the water remains discolored for longer than a few hours, please notify GCWW Customer Service at (513) 591-7700.
4. Awareness: Servicing of the hydrants takes place seven (7) days a week. Please watch for CFD vehicles on the streets and move cars if possible.

This process of servicing hydrants will take place over the next two months. However, there is no set schedule, and it is also dependent on weather and accessibility.

Since these activities routinely occur region-wide, GCWW & CFD are also contacting other fire departments in the area for expanded awareness.