Firefighters conduct annual base hydrants flow test Published June 28, 2017 By Airman 1st Class Taylor Crul 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs 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.