(La Porte, IN) - Fire hydrants over the next four to five weeks will start being flushed in La Porte beginning Sunday.

According to the mayor’s office, crews will be flushing the hydrants every Sunday through Thursday from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Water Department Superintendent Tim Werner said the flushing is a critical part of maintaining water quality and the system.

“It happens every year.   Still, we like to take the opportunity each time to remind our community just how important this system maintenance is as we work to continue high quality water service to our residents for years to come,” he said.

Werner also advised hydrant flushing could cause water in some areas to become discolored or rusty looking but, if that happens, it’s still safe to drink. However, he said discolored water in washing machines may stain clothing so residents should check their water before doing laundry.

Residents with stained clothing should contact the water department for a free rust removing solution before drying.

The La Porte Water Department can be reached at 219-326-9540.