The Airdrie Fire Department will be visiting each community in the city for its annual spring hydrant inspections and testing.

Starting April 1st, firefighters will begin cleaning and testing over 700 fire hydrants in Airdrie.

"We do a hydrant maintenance program both in spring and fall," said Linda Masson, Deputy Fire Chief. "Both times of the year crews go around and they check all of the city owned fire hydrants just to make sure that they're functioning properly - to make sure that we're getting adequate water flow should we need them in case of a fire response."

Masson said they want the public to be aware of the process and not be alarmed when large quantities of water start pouring down the street.

"We just want the residents to know what's going on when they see the fire crews working on the hydrants and to watch and give them lots of room so they stay safe."

Some of the main tests the firefighters will conduct includes calibrating of water pressure.

Firefighters will be testing the hydrant's water flow by using a diffusor to control the water supply, allowing them to calibrate the water pressure and meet necessary requirements.

Masson said crews are also able to do minor countenance on scene including simple hydrant repairs or gasket replacements.

"If there's major issues they refer it to our public works department just to ensure that the hydrants all are working if we need them."

Along with testing the hydrants, the firefighters will also ensure the water is safe for entry into Nose Creek and the storm water system.

"This is the city water system - it is chlorinated water so we also use a dechlorination system so that the water is safe to go into the storm sewers or if we get it on any grass areas."

Firefighters will work throughout April and into the month of May in order to inspect and check all fire hydrants in the city.

Bradley Jones - airdrienews@goldenwestradio.com