During the week of August 31 through September 4, the City of Glens Falls Water & Sewer Department and Arcadis (consultant), will conduct smoke testing of the sewer system in designated areas of the city. The testing involves blowing simulated smoke into the sewer lines to reveal places where storm and surface waters enter the sewer system. During testing, gray smoke may exit through vent pipes on roofs of homes and through sewer line breaks.
The smoke is non-toxic, leaves no residue and creates no fire hazard. It has a distinctive, yet not unpleasant odor and it does not impact plant or animal life. Visibility and odor should last only a few moments. Those who suffer from lung or respiratory ailments should contact either Arcadis at 518-250-7254 or the Glens Falls Water & Sewer Department at 518-761-3857 for advanced notification.
The simulated smoke should not enter your home. If there are seldom used drains, property owners should pour a gallon of water down the drain to fill the drain trap. This procedure will help prevent smoke from entering living areas through those drains. If traces of smoke or odor enter the home, it’s an indication that gases and odors from the sewer may also enter the home. It is urgent that the property owner obtain a plumbing permit and repair these problems as soon as possible. If smoke is observed in your home, ventilate the room immediately and report it to the testing crew in the area. It is important to repair the problem as soon as possible.
Residents will be notified directly of the smoke testing via door hangers placed at their property. The attached map shows the areas where the testing will take place. Please direct any questions to Assistant City Engineer Jeremy Schneible at 518 761-3850 ext. 124.