LAWRENCE COUNTY — Beginning Monday and continuing through Friday, Aqua Ohio employees will open the fire hydrants to flush water mains.

Flushing will be done in the Chesapeake and east Chesapeake areas on Monday. Chesapeake, Big Branch, west Chesapeake, and the Sybene areas will be flushed on Tuesday. Buffalo Creek, Charlie Creek, Sybene, and Sandusky Road areas will be flushed on Wednesday.

The Burlington area and the rest of the system to the west will be flushed on Thursday and Friday.

The flushing will occur between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. each night.

The company conducts this annual program to maintain water quality and to ensure hydrants are working as they should.

By opening fire hydrants under controlled conditions, sediment is flushed from the system, resulting in cleaner pipes, better water quality and improved capacity.

The program also helps to make sure fire hydrants are in good working order and any needed repairs are made.

Flushing is an important part of a regular maintenance program for water distribution systems.

Aqua Ohio officials say the company consistently meets or exceeds all drinking water standards by using high-quality water sources, providing the best treatment possible and through aggressive maintenance programs.

Customers may experience a slight drop in water pressure or a temporary discoloration of their water while this program is underway. Although the discolored water is safe for consumption, customers should refrain from doing laundry while flushing is taking place.

If discoloration should occur, Aqua Ohio recommends allowing several cold-water faucets to run for a short time until the water runs clear.

Customers who have questions regarding hydrant flushing may call the Aqua Ohio Customer Service Center at (877) 987-2782.