Fire department testing could cause water pressure, colour concerns

Citizens in and around Picton may notice water pressure or colour concerns on two dates as the Prince Edward County Fire Department completes exercises to seek “Superior Tanker Shuttle Accreditation”.

The accreditation confirms that they are able to effectively transport water to fire incidents in rural locations that do not have access to fire hydrants. To achieve this accreditation, the fire department must complete an exercise that involves filling a number of tanker trucks from hydrants in the Picton Industrial Park and transport the water to a test site at Essroc Cement on County  Road 49. Once on the test site, the tankers must continuously supply sufficient water to the test site for two hours.

Achieving Superior Tanker Shuttle  Accreditation means that at least 900L per minute of water can be transported and applied to a fire within eight kilometres of a Fire station, an amount that is typically required to bring a house  fire under control. As many insurance companies recognize the Superior Tanker Shuttle Accreditation, achieving this accreditation could result in reduced fire insurance premiums for rural residents.

A practice test is set to take place Thursday, Oct. 16 from 6pm until 10pm, and the official testing day is to take place on Oct. 25 from 9am until noon.

The testing will not result in any road closures, but may cause slight traffic interruptions at the intersection of Picton Main Street and McFarland Drive.
While testing is under way water users in the testing area may experience minor pressure fluctuation and coloured drinking water. If coloured water is experienced, flushing the cold water tap nearest to the water meter once testing is complete will help improve water clarity.