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Firefighters conduct annual base hydrants flow test

Wes Felber, a base firefighter, closes a fire hydrant June 24 on the flight line. This yearly test insures the fire hydrants are in working order and meet National Fire Protection Association's requirements. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class Taylor Crul)

Wes Felber, a base firefighter, closes a fire hydrant June 24 on the flight line. This yearly test insures the fire hydrants are in working order and meet National Fire Protection Association's requirements. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class Taylor Crul)

Base firefighters Mason Hornberger, left, and Wes Felber open up a fire hydrant on the flightline June 24. This is part of an annual test to make sure the installation fire hydrants are meeting National Fire Protection Association's requirements. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class Taylor Crul)

Base firefighters Mason Hornberger, left, and Wes Felber open up a fire hydrant on the flightline June 24. This is part of an annual test to make sure the installation fire hydrants are meeting National Fire Protection Association's requirements. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class Taylor Crul)

VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. - Base firefighters tested fire hydrants here June 20 through 24 to make sure the hydrants were in working order.

This is an annual flow test of the installation's hydrants to make sure the pressure coming out meets the National Fire Protection Association's requirements, said Fire Chief Michael Trent.

During the testing, there might have been some discolored water coming out of base faucets. There was no need to worry, said Trent. Some sediment in the piping may have been disturbed. Letting the water run clears the water.

To test the hydrants, the firefighters open them, let them run, and measure the flow of water using a Pitot gauge to make sure the water pressure is correct and constant.

This annual test ensures the base hydrants are working properly and are ready to use at a moment's notice.

For more information, contact the Fire Prevention office at 580-213-7262.