Sanitary Sewer Smoke Testing Public Notice

ATTN: OLD MYSTIC RESIDENTS

TOWN OF STONINGTON PUBLIC NOTICE

SANITARY INFILTRATION AND INFLOW STUDY

The Town of Stonington WPCA, will be conducting smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system in the area of Old Mystic. The smoke testing is planned to commence the week of November 1, 2021. This testing will preferable be done at low tide under dry weather conditions so this may affect the day of that week we conduct the testing.  Once initiated, the testing will probably be complete in a few hours. This testing is part of an on-going study to investigate infiltration of storm water into the Town’s sewer system and locate breaks and defects in the pipes. The testing will involve opening manholes in the streets and forcing a special smoke into and through the sewer lines. The smoke is manufactured for this purpose, leaves no residuals or stains, and has no effect on plant or animal life.  The smoke has a distinctive, but not unpleasant, odor.  Visibility and odor will last only a few minutes, where there is adequate ventilation.  Because the plumbing appliances in your house or building are connected to the sanitary sewer system, some smoke may enter your home or place of business if the: 

• Vents connected to your building's sewer pipes are inadequate, defective, or improperly installed.
• Traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers and other drains are dry, defective, improperly installed, or missing.
• Pipes, connections and seals of the wastewater drain system in and under your buildings are damaged, defective, have plugs missing, or are improperly installed.

 If traces of this smoke or its odor enter your house or building, it is an indication that gases and odors from the sewer also may enter. These can be both unpleasant and dangerous, as well as a health risk to the occupants. Should smoke enter your home or business, you may contact a member of the smoke testing crew working in your area.  

The crew member will be able to help and check with you as to where the smoke has entered your building.  Location, identification, and correction of the source of smoke that enters your building is urgently advised.  Your cooperation will be appreciated. The information gained from this testing will be used to improve your sewer services and may reduce the eventual cost to utility customers. Should you have any questions on this matter, please contact the WPCA @ 860-535-5065