City to conduct Sanitary Sewer 'Smoke Testing'

Starting on Thursday, July 29, the City of Jamestown Public Works Staff and Ulteig Engineers will be conducting “smoke testing” to identify weak or broken areas in the City’s sanitary sewer system.  The bulk of this testing will be in the center of the City from Nickeus Park on the north to McElroy Park on the south; the east and west limits may be adjusted as needed.  The smoke testing is anticipated to run through August 13th, weather permitting, and will only take a few hours in each area.

If you have any seldom used drains, such as floor drains in basements, please pour water in the drain to fill the trap, which will prevent smoke from entering there.  Drain traps should always be filled with water to prevent sewer gases or odors from entering the building.  Additionally, many washing machine drain pipes do not have traps. To help prevent smoke from entering your building around the washing machine drain pipe, tie a damp rag around the drain opening.

Should smoke enter your building, you may contact a member of the Ulteig smoke testing crew working in your neighborhood, or contact the City of Jamestown.  You should also contact a licensed plumber if this occurs to look at the integrity of your home’s sanitary system.

While we have no reason to expect difficulties, we wanted to make you aware of the coming activities. We anticipate that the smoke testing activities will require only a few hours in your area. Your patience and cooperation is very much appreciated during this very important field work and project.