NOTICE OF SMOKE TESTING
October 27, 2011
The Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) for the City of Norwalk will be conducting smoke testing to identify where storm water may be entering the sanitary sewer system. Smoke testing will be performed in the next few days from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the following streets:
• Armstrong Court • Jennie Jenks Street • Richlee Road
• Beacon Street • Jersey Lane • Rockmore Road
• Catalpa Street • Karen Drive • Rolling Lane
• Chelene Road • King Street • Sterling Place
• Crossland Place • Kingsbury Road • Strawberry Hill Avenue
• Dairy Farm Road • Knoll Street • Sunset Hill Avenue
• Dairy Farm Court • Lenore Drive • Tally Drive
• East Avenue • Lighthouse Lane • Tanglewood Lane
• Eugene Drive • Lyncrest Drive • Waterbury Road
• Gwendolyn Street • Macintosh Road • William Street
• Hillandale Manor • Maurice Street • Willow Street
This storm water is referred to as inflow, and can enter the system during periods of wet weather through many sources including catch basins, damaged manholes, roof leaders, sump pumps, and basement drains. Inflow increases the cost to operate the sewer system and can contribute to undesirable backups and overflows. Smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system will help to locate these sources of inflow.
The smoke testing operation involves blowing smoke into the sanitary sewer system and monitoring where the smoke escapes. The smoke is non-toxic, non-staining, and does not leave a residue. This testing poses no fire hazard. The smoke should not enter your building unless your plumbing is defective. If you have a drain in your basement (such as a sink or a shower) that has not been used recently, you can prepare for the smoke test by pouring water down the drain to fill the trap. It is not necessary for you to be home during the smoke testing.
In the event that the smoke does enter your building, it may set off smoke detectors; if you are home, open the windows to aid in the ventilation of the smoke, and notify the field crew in the street, who will be easily identified by their traffic vests and red truck. The smoke should pass in 15 to 20 minutes.
Your cooperation and patience will help in expediting the work effort. The Police, Fire, Water Pollution Control Authority, and Public Works Department are aware of the work and will assist as necessary. Please notify the field crew in the general vicinity should you see any smoke during the test.
If you should have any questions concerning the smoke testing, please contact our contractor, Flow Assessment Services LLC at 888-311-9799 or Nic Berkun, with the WPCA, at 203-216-1206 or after hours, please contact the City’s contract operator, OMI, at 203-943-0222 (24-hour hotline).