Sewer Smoke Testing Begins Monday, June 24, 2024

Testing Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm

Duration: Seven (7) business days

Testing Locations: Area 1 and 3 on map (MAP LINKED HERE)

Purpose:
The City of Newcastle has hired Civil and Environmental Consultants Inc. (CEC) to conduct sewer smoke testing to locate defects in our sanitary sewer lines. This process involves blowing harmless smoke into the system to identify areas where unwanted storm water may be entering.

Important Information:

• The smoke is NON-TOXIC, CLEAN, HARMLESS, and CREATES NO FIRE HAZARD. It will not harm humans, pets, food, or material goods.
• Smoke should not enter your home unless you have defective plumbing or dried-up drain traps. Pour water into seldom-used drains to prevent this.
• If smoke enters your home, open windows for ventilation. The smoke will clear within a few minutes.
• Your presence at home is not required during the testing. All public safety authorities have been notified.
• Please share this information with your neighbors to prevent needless concern.

Note:
Testing may be rescheduled in case of significant rainfall. Additional notifications will be provided if the schedule changes.

For questions, contact:
City of Newcastle Public Works Department
717 N. Walker Drive, Newcastle, OK 73065
(405)-387-4434

COMMON QUESTIONS/ANSWERS

Is the smoke/vapor harmful?
No. It may make you cough but is not harmful and will not damage clothing, drapes, or furniture.

What should I do if smoke gets into the house?
Open doors and/or windows for ventilation. Use fans to speed up the process. Pour water into the drain where the vapor is coming from to stop it.

What is the purpose of smoke testing?
To find leaks in the sanitary sewer system and identify where storm water may enter.

What if I have pets at home during testing?
Smoke is not harmful to pets. Ensure all drain traps have water in them.

How long does it take for smoke to dissipate?
This depends on the amount of smoke and ventilation. Using fans helps.

Why is the water in my toilet/drain bubbling?
Bubbling is caused by air from the blower. Ventilate the area to clear the vapor.

What happens if a bad sewer connection is found?
CEC will document the issue for the city to review.