Spring Watermain Flushing Begins Today

Monday, 3 April 2023 07:23

By Robert Van Ryswyck

Officials will begin flushing the watermains in Plattsville and Thamesford today. All of the watermains in Oxford should be flushed by May 22nd.

OXFORD COUNTY - The annual spring watermain flushing in Oxford County is coming soon. Residents across the county are advised to take a few steps to prepare for not having clean drinking water.

The county flushes the watermains twice a year to get rid of build-up from minerals in the groundwater. They do this by pumping water at high pressures and releasing it through fire hydrants and blow-offs.

During this time residents are advised to keep the water off in their homes to avoid having discoloured water run through their pipes. While this water is not a health risk, the county recommends against using it.

The flushing process takes many hours. Citizens can prepare by setting tap water aside for household needs ahead of time, and doing water-related tasks (showering, cleaning, laundry, etc.) before the flushing begins.

If you experience discoloured water after the flushing, the county says to run cold water for 10 minutes until the water clears. This is best done through faucets not connected to water softeners or filters, like an outside tap or laundry faucet. If the water is not clear two hours after the flush or has pressure issues, contact the county at 1-800-755-0394.

The flushing begins April 3rd in Plattsville and Thamesford and moves around the county all the way until May 22nd. The full schedule of when each community is affected and for how long can be found here.

Annual spring watermain flushing takes place in Oxford County from Apr 3-May 22. To learn how to prepare and to find out when flushing will happen in your community, visit https://t.co/jJezVjQmJ6.@TillsonburgTown @cityofwoodstock @TownIngersoll @EastZorraTav @ZorraTwp @SWOX123 pic.twitter.com/ckLF7AQ3gg
— Oxford County (@OxfordCounty) March 30, 2023