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Smoke Testing - Letter to Residents
Smoke testing is conducted to find possible leaks in the sanitary sewer system and roof drain connections. Smoke testing can help locate bad connections that homeowners or occupants are not aware of.
| Date:______________ |
| The Newport News Department of Public Works, Wastewater Division, is conducting a sanitary sewer evaluation program designed to eliminate ground water and storm water from entering the sanitary sewer system in your area. Part of this program requires smoke testing the sanitary sewer mains and house lateral connections to find leaks. |
| We will be testing sewer lines in your area from__________ to__________. Smoke may be seen coming from roof vents, building foundations, or manhole covers. The smoke will not enter your home if the home is properly plumbed and vented and water traps contain water. The smoke is a non-toxic, odorless substance which is clean and harmless to humans, pets, food, and material goods. |
| Any presence of smoke within the house should be reported to the Wastewater Division at 269-2750 or to the crews working in the street conducting the tests. Please avoid unnecessary exposure to the smoke. The smoke is relatively harmless but smoke of any kind can be irritating to the nasal passages for some people. If you experience smoke irritation, it should be temporary and quickly disappear after exposure has ceased. If you or any member of your family have a health condition that you feel we need to be aware of please contact us at the number indicated above. |
| If we are unable to conduct the smoke testing in your area due to an unexpected emergency, you will be notified with an updated letter as soon as possible. Some common questions are answered on the other side of this notice. If you should have any further questions, do not hesitate to give us a call at the phone number listed above. |
| Sincerely, |
| Stephen Land |
| Wastewater Administrator |
| SKL/lmr |
