Annual Hydrant Inspection/Maintenance April 28 - June 20 Helps Ensure Hydrant Function

Cambridge Fire and Water Departments will be conducting the annual fire hydrant inspection and maintenance on weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., from April 28 through June 20. This process helps ensure maximum hydrant operability & proper water flows for firefighting. Annual hydrant inspection is also a factor in our national Class 1 fire protection rating.

Engine 1 (Hovey Avenue) and Engine 3 (East Cambridge) will start the inspections this year. Other engine companies will follow until every hydrant in the city is inspected. Ladder companies may assist as needed.

The planned schedule for 2025 is as follows:

Engine 1 (Hovey Av) & Engine 3 (East Cambridge)        Apr 28 – May 9

Engine 2 (Lafayette Sq) & Engine 4 (North Cambridge)  May 12 – May 23

Engine 5 (Inman Sq) & Engine 8 (Taylor Sq)                        May 27 – June 6

Engine 6 (River St) & Engine 9 (West Cambridge)                June 9 – June 20

Note: Schedules may change due to ongoing emergency responses or technical training activity or severe weather issues.

Due to the significant drought conditions currently affecting the state, hydrants will NOT be “flow tested” this year. Hydrants will be visually inspected, checked for operability, and opened just until water flows & then shut down. They will be checked for proper drainage.

Proven reliability: Note that because of our long history of testing and maintenance of hydrants, Cambridge has experienced very few hydrant issues during fire emergencies, especially during the winter.

For any questions about water quality, check the Cambridge Water Department website at https://www.cambridgema.gov/water.