Before conducting smoke testing you should:

In the context of conducting smoke testing, notifying the public, local police, and fire departments in advance of the testing is essential for ensuring community safety and awareness. Smoke testing typically involves introducing non-toxic smoke into sanitary sewer systems to identify leaks and confirm system integrity. Because this can create visible smoke in the area, advance notice helps prevent confusion, alarm, or unnecessary emergency responses.

Notifying the public prepares them for any unusual sights or potential odors, minimizing panic or concern about a possible fire. Involving local police and fire departments is equally important, as their personnel may receive calls about the smoke, and they need to be aware that it is part of a scheduled testing procedure. This proactive communication helps maintain public trust and ensures that emergency resources are not diverted inappropriately.

The other choices do not adequately address the need for advance notification, either by limiting the scope of notification only after an incident occurs or by failing to inform all relevant parties.