Sewer system to undergo smoke testing

The city of Blaine’s public works department will soon be conducting leak testing on the sewer system.

The testing, which will take place from August 26 to September 12, involves forcing smoke into sewer lines. This smoke allows public works staff to locate places where stormwater and surface waters are entering the city’s sewers, and to locate sources of sewer odors.

The special smoke used in the process is non-toxic, leaves no stains and has no effect on plants or animals. While it does have a distinctive, non-toxic odor, most residents will never see or smell the smoke during the city’s testing.

In the unlikely event that one has direct contact with the smoke, the city recommends seeking adequate ventilation because the smoke could be a slight irritant. Those with asthma, emphysema or other respiratory conditions are asked to notify the city immediately in order to discuss their cases in further detail. The public works department can be reached at 360/332-8820 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

If traces of the smoke or its odor enter one’s house or building, this should be immediately reported to the public works department and to a plumber. The correction of any defects in the pipes and sewer on private property is strongly recommended, but is ultimately the responsibility of the property owner.