The City of Vadnais Heights wants to reassure residents and businesses the safety of our drinking water during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the CDC, water treatment methods that use filtration and disinfection, such as those in our municipal drinking water systems, remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19. In addition, our Public Works staff is working staggered work shifts to ensure social distancing to keep our staff healthy, and equipment and work areas are sanitized regularly.
City Hydrant Flushing, Beginning May 18
Every spring, City crews flush fire hydrants, to help maintain water quality. Hydrant flushing is scheduled the week of May 18 north of County Road F and the weeks of May 25 or June 1 south of County Road F. This schedule may vary a few days either way. Please keep cars away from hydrants in these areas between the hours of 8 am and 3 pm.
Cloudy or discolored water may be present while hydrant flushing is taking place. There is no health risk with this water and the cloudiness should clear up by letting your cold water tap run from the lowest level, usually your utility tub. During this time be cautious when doing your laundry, especially whites.
Recommendation to Businesses to Flush Internal Water Systems Prior to Opening
As some Vadnais Heights businesses are getting ready to reopen their doors on Monday, May 18, we want to remind businesses to perform water quality procedures prior to opening. To maintain good water quality, internal water system flushing is important maintenance that will remove stagnant water, ensuring you have the freshest, best quality water prior to reopening.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommend and provide guidelines to business owners for flushing internal water systems prior to reopening buildings and facilities after this period of prolonged shutdown.
Resources and Guidelines:
MDH: Ensuring Water Quality in Building Premise Plumbing: Guidance for Building Owners and Managers During and After COVID-19
CDC: Guidance for Reopening Buildings After Prolonged Shutdown or Reduced Operation
For more information on water quality and hydrant flushing, please contact City Hall at 651-204-6000.