Illinois American Water Notice of Hydrant Flushing & Temporary Water Treatment Change

ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER – NOTICE OF HYDRANT FLUSHING & TEMPORARY WATER TREATMENT CHANGE FOR ALTON, GODFREY & GRAFTON

This is an important message from Illinois American Water.  IAW are beginning their annual maintenance program, which includes testing and flushing fire hydrants in addition to a temporary change in water treatment.  This work is expected to begin Monday, September 7 and will occur across the water system for up to 4 weeks.  Flushing in your area will occur between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.  This work is part of our annual maintenance which supports continued water quality and fire protection.

While Illinois American Water crews are working, customers may experience a slight drop in water pressure or discolored water for a short period of time.  If your water is discolored, run the cold-water taps only, at the lowest level of the house for about 3 to 5 minutes until the water runs clear.  If discolored water occurs please refrain from doing laundry during that time.

While IAW is completing this work, their water quality team will also be switching treatment to a form of chlorine known as “free chlorine,” which does not contain ammonia.  This stronger disinfectant is typically used by water utilities when flushing water mains and fire hydrants.  If you have a health care need that requires purified or filtered water, you should reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions.

During the temporary treatment change, customers may experience a more noticeable chlorine taste or odor in their water.  There is no reason for concern.  This is due to the switch in chlorine types.

If you are a landlord and water service is in your name, please inform your tenants so they are aware of this impact to their water service.  In keeping with American Water’s focus on safety for both customers and employees, please do not approach IAW crews while they work.  For more information or to see a map of the affected area please go to Illinoisamwater.com

and click on ‘Alerts’.

IAW apologizes for any inconvenience and appreciates your patience and understanding.