Flushing fire hydrants can disturb minerals and sediments in the water distribution system resulting in red or brown colored water. If you see city crews flushing a hydrant on your street, avoid running tap water and using the washing machine or the dishwasher until the flushing is done. If discolored water does enter your plumbing system, run COLD tap water until it runs clear. Running COLD water in the garden hose is also an effective way to flush your system, and you can water your landscaping at the same time.