PORT ORCHARD — As part of a semi-annual preventative maintenance program, the Port Orchard Public Works Department will start flushing city fire hydrants on Monday, Oct. 1.

The activity, which ends Friday, Oct. 5, includes an inspection of each hydrant under full flow. Residents will notice water flowing along the street at times, according to the department. In addition, the large flow of water will stir up any naturally occurring sediment in the water mains. The annual inspection flushes this sediment from the water system.

Public Works officials said that customers may notice sediment in the water at their house faucets during the week of the inspections. If this occurs, residents are advised to turn off the inside faucet, then allow water to run from an outside hose bib or a cold water tap to clear the water. The water should only have to run a few minutes before it is clear again.

The City Treasurer’s office will apply a small credit to the water bill at the request of the ratepayer when it’s necessary.

Those who have questions can call Public Works at 360-876-4991.