Testing ensures that hydrants are in full working order and verifies their flow capacity. Someone could also accidentally turn off the fire hydrant water valve and it would not be noticed until it is needed during a fire. 

In order to determine that a fire hydrant is capable of meeting fire flow requirements, Umpqua Valley Fire Services employees must open the hydrants and discharge water from the hydrant at a very high flow rate.

- Static pressure: Available water pressure. 

- Residual pressure: Available water pressure that is left over during flow. 

- Flow pressure: Pressure that is flowing. 

While fire hydrant testing is a routine maintenance procedure, it may result in temporary inconveniences. High flow rate discharge during testing disturbs sediments in the water distribution system. This often results in brown or rust-colored water. Hydrant testing may also reduce regular water pressure. Reduced water pressure should only be intermittent as the hydrants are being tested. Your regular water pressure will return to normal once the flow testing is complete. 

If you detect brown or rust-colored water, do not drink the water or wash your laundry. While discolored water is not harmful to your health, it can stain laundry.