Halloween Hydrant Flushing

A carbon filter, newly installed at the Milford Water Company property, is ready to be put to use.

The private utility company announced Friday it would begin townwide hydrant flushing on Oct. 31, to start moving the carbon-treated water through the distribution system. If successful, the new process should lower levels of a contaminant, , that has existed in high levels for a year in the public water.

The carbon filter — — was installed in October on the Water Company's Dilla Street property. It is designed to remove natural materials and sediment from the water that is being collected from surface waters, such as ponds, before the treatment process begins.

The hydrant flushing is expected to result in temporary discoloration, as well as some loss of pressure.

"It is important to note that this is not part of our normal flushing program," the Water Company announced, in a press release. "You may notice a temporary loss of water pressure and discoloration. Please run the water first before using for laundry."

Flushing should take place during daylight hours, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the company announced. The program begins Monday.