During the week of May 15-19, 2017, the City of Timmins will begin a study of the Porcupine/Bob’s Lake sanitary system to identify locations of rainwater entering the sanitary sewers, by smoke testing in the Bob’s Lake Area.

Smoke testing uses a non-toxic visible mist that is blown into sewer pipes to locate possible breaks, defects or improper connections. Manufactured specifically for this purpose, the smoke will not harm humans, animals or plants, has no unpleasant odour, will not stain fabrics, does not create a fire hazard and will dissipate quickly.

During the test, it is common to see smoke coming from manholes, downspouts, eaves troughs, basement floor drains and unused sinks. Smoke may also exit underground pipes through cracks in surrounding soil or pavement.

Identifying and correcting entry points of rainwater into the sanitary sewer system will reduce the possibility of sewage backups in residential neighborhoods. Excess rainwater can also overwhelm the capacity of sewage pump stations and wastewater lagoon systems, forcing the discharge of untreated wastewater into nearby waterways.

Citizens who would like more information are asked to contact the City of Timmins at 360-2646.

Filed under: Local News