MOULTRIE, Ga. — The Moultrie Fire Department will be inspecting fire hydrants in the city starting Monday and continuing until all 900 hydrants are inspected.

The inspection involves removing all caps and lubricating the threads as well as flowing water to ensure that each hydrant is operating correctly, according to a press release from the city.

The inspections will begin in the Northwest community first, followed by the Southwest, Southeast and Northeast sections. 

“This annual testing is essential to maintain or improve the community’s Class 3 Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Protection Classification and to ensure that the hydrants are operating efficiently for fire protection purposes,” the city said. “Along with maintaining the fire rating, the testing monitors the health of the city’s water system, identifies weak areas in the system, removes materials that settle in the hydrant and cleans out the lines.”

Checking each hydrant also improves knowledge of hydrant locations, the city said.

Fire department personnel will check to make sure there is adequate clearance around all fire hydrants. Property owners are asked to clear weeds and brush from blocked hydrants to aid in their easy identification and access. 

“The fire codes requires at least 36 inches of clear area around the hydrant for proper access, which helps ensure the hydrant is visible from the road,” the city said.

During the hydrant inspections, residents might experience temporarily low water pressure or discolored (rusty) water, the city said. The discoloration will not harm an individual, although it may stain light-colored clothing.

If you experience discolored water, run your faucets until you have clean water, the city advised. Do not run your hot water, and do not do laundry until your water is clear.

If you have questions about the discolored water, please contact the City of Moultrie Utilities by calling (229) 668-6000.

If you have any questions about the hydrants — or should you at any time notice a hydrant in need of repair — please contact the Moultrie Fire Department at (229) 985-1805.