November 13, 2022 at 6:00 am
Starting Thursday, the town of Essex and Clean Water Ontario will use smoke tests to inspect sewers.
Officials will blow a harmless white vapor into sewer manholes and pipes so they can see where the sewer has gaps. That way, they can see where the stormwater is entering the sewer and create a repair plan.
(Test area photo courtesy of Town of Essex)
Smoke is harmless. It has no smell and dissipates within minutes.
Smoke should exit the sewers primarily through manholes on the street and through sewer pipe chimneys on top of homes. It may also flow from downspouts and rainwater collection basins in the home.
Residents in the testing area can help by slowly pouring buckets of water down the basement floor drain and any sinks that are not frequently used.
Those with questions or health conditions they believe may be affected by the smoke test should call the Department of Environmental Services at 519-776-7336 ext. 1425.
