Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:
Fire Flow Tests:
Fire flow tests are conducted to determine the available water supply for firefighting and to ensure water distribution systems meet fire protection requirements.
Who Should Be Notified:
According to NFPA 291 (Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants), the water department must be notified prior to conducting fire flow tests.
This is because the water department oversees the water distribution system and needs to monitor for any disruptions, water loss, or pressure changes caused by the test.
Other Options Explained:
Option A (Fire department): Fire departments conduct or participate in the tests but do not need to be the primary department notified.
Option B (Highway department): Not involved in water system management.
Option D (Health department): Concerned with water quality, not water flow or system capacity.
Summary:
The water department must be notified prior to a fire flow test to ensure proper coordination and monitoring of the water distribution system.