City Testing Shows Water Quality is Safe

City Testing Shows Water Quality is Safe

Homes in evacuation areas are suggested to flush system upon return.

Kirstin Davis, Communications Manager, [email protected]

Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 12:44 p.m.

After completing a variety of tests for bacteria and other potential contaminants over the last week, the City of Spokane's Water Department is reporting that it is delivering safe and clean water in the areas impacted by fire.

When evacuation zones begin to ;open up, residents who have been evacuated and haven't used their water for more than a week should flush the water in their house before drinking to avoid issues with stagnant water in their homes. The Water Department recommends flushing water through internal plumbing fixtures to "turn over" the unused water and refresh waterfrom the water main through pipes.

"The water in your internal plumbing is stale from sitting idle and will benefit from being refreshed when people are able to return home," says Public Works Director Marlene Feist.

Unused water that has been sitting in pipes for extended periods may appear cloudy or have an unpleasant taste or odor. This simple step can help improve water freshness after a period of non-use. The City continues to conduct water quality tests throughout its system and additional testing in affected areas. At this time, there has been no detection of unsafe bacteria or chemicals.

How to Flush Your Plumbing After Returning Home

1. Remove faucet aerators from sinks throughout your home. This is a good opportunity to soak them in warm vinegar to help remove mineral buildup and any debris before reinstalling them.
2. Turn on all cold-water faucets, one at a time, leaving each running as you move through your home. Turn on the bathtub faucet(s) last. If you only have a shower, turn it on last.
3. Allow the water to run just long enough to walk through your home turning on each faucet, then make another pass to turn them all off. This replaces the stagnant water in your plumbing with fresh water from the public water system.
4. If applicable, also flush:
   • Outdoor hose bibs/spigots
   • Refrigerator water dispenser or ice maker supply
   • Washing machine supply lines
   • Other infrequently used water fixtures
5. Reinstall the cleaned aerators once flushing is complete.

To report concerns, community members can call 3-1-1 Monday - Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., or 509.625.7800 outside of these hours. Annual water quality reports can be found on our website

Related Documents

• Flushing Your Water System Flyer (PDF 135 KB)

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