Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and the City of Yonkers Fire Department today announced the commencement of its annual fire hydrant inspection, set to begin Monday, September 9. Yonkers firefighters are expected to conduct the inspections in a span of 6 to 8 weeks.
The work will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday through Friday.
“Fire hydrants are a vital part of firefighting operations,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “This annual program allows our Department to make any necessary adjustments and ensure its working capacity before the onset of any emergency that may occur.”
“This important program ensures all fire hydrants are working properly,” said City of Yonkers Fire Department Commissioner William Fitzpatrick. “The hydrant is visibly inspected for physical damage, caps are in place and the hydrant is not covered by brush, weeds, or other debris. While it may create a minor inconvenience of discolored water for a brief time – it is essential to public safety that this vital inspection is conducted annually and before the winter.”
With more than 4,000 fire hydrants located every 300 feet in the City of Yonkers, this program is designed to test and ensure proper functionality and effectiveness in the event of a fire.
While the inspections take place, residents can expect to see fire trucks and crews of firefighters identifying hydrants on their streets, and opening the hydrants and flowing water during the testing procedure. While the inspections occur, residents may experience fluctuations in water pressure and discolored water, due to a disruption of the water system from opening and closing the hydrants. Robocalls will be sent to residents alerting them when the Yonkers Fire Department will be in their area and may affect their water service.
If any problems persist, or you have questions regarding water quality, please contact the Water Treatment Plant at 914 377-6765 or the 24-hour Mayor’s Help Line at (914) 377-4357.
