(KNSI) – If you live on the west side of Sartell and spot white smoke rising from a manhole or storm drain this week, there’s no need to call the fire department.
The city is doing sanitary sewer smoke testing during the week of October 26th with help from SEH, the engineering firm that serves as Sartell’s city engineers. Smoke may come out of manholes, storm drains, roof vents, yards and other outdoor spots during the testing.
City officials say the smoke is safe, non-toxic and won’t stain anything.
The testing helps crews find places where rainwater or groundwater is leaking into the sanitary sewer system. That extra water adds to treatment costs and puts strain on the pipes. Finding the leaks lets the city make repairs that save money, protect its sewer system and lower the risk of backups and other problems.
Residents in neighborhoods included in the testing area will get another notice from the city before crews start work in their area.
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