Smoke tests begin this week on Cape sewers

Smoke testing in portions of Cape Girardeau's sewer system began this week.

Hydromax USA, under contract with the Public Works Department, and Stantec Consulting will do the testing.

The city expects the work to be finished in three to four weeks. It is part of the city's program to remove rainwater from the sewer system flows, as required in the agreement between the city and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Smoke testing helps determine how rain and other ground water enter the sewer system and travel to the wastewater treatment facility, increasing the gallons the facility must treat. Daily average flow processed through the facility from Cape Girardeau's sewers is 5 million to 6 million gallons, the city said, though the facility may process as many as 27 million gallons per day during rain.

During testing, residents may see smoke coming from holes in the ground or vent stacks on houses. The smoke has no odor and will be white to gray, the city said. It is nontoxic, nonstaining and creates no fire hazard. Smoke should not enter homes unless defective plumbing is present or drain taps are dry.

Pouring a gallon of water into any seldom-used drain will fill the drain traps and prevent the smoke from entering a home, the city advised. Those who do notice smoke entering their home or business during the testing period should notify the crew in the area and open windows for ventilation; workers will be identifiable by uniforms and vehicles with the company logo.

The field crew can be reached at (812) 746-5840. Those away from homes and businesses who discover smoke later may call Stantec Consulting at (636) 764-5859 or (314) 368-9896.

For more information on the smoke testing or sewer system in Cape Girardeau, call public works at (573) 339-6351.

Pertinent address:

Cape Girardeau, Mo.