The city of Lewiston will begin Monday using smoke to test for leaks in the sewer system in northeast neighborhoods of the city, and is asking residents there to pour a gallon of water into all seldom-used sinks, floor drains, and other plumbing fixtures to avoid smoke in their homes.

The process is expected to end Wednesday, Oct. 1.

The water will help block test smoke and sewer gases from entering homes during the inspection process, officials said. In sinks and drains that are frequently used, water will already be present in those drains.

“The tests are designed to locate leaks, cracks, and improper connections that allow stormwater or groundwater into the sewer system. Identifying and repairing these issues helps prevent sewage overflows, protects public health, and improves the overall efficiency of the sewer system,” officials said in an announcement Friday, “… while helping to protect rivers, streams, and wildlife from untreated discharges.”
 
Authorities said the smoke is nontoxic, nonstaining, and may be seen coming from roof vents, building drains, manholes, drainage structures, or the ground. “The smoke is similar to fog used at concerts and theaters, dissipates quickly, and poses no fire hazard,” they said. “… The smoke does not pose any harm to people, animals or plants.”

Testing crews will not enter homes or businesses, and residents do not need to be present during the inspections.
 
Officials said the smoke should not enter homes unless plumbing is defective or traps are dry. “If it does, residents should open a window, run a fan, and notify work crews immediately.” If residents discover smoke in their home, call Lewiston Public Works at 207-513-3003.
 
City officials said they were distributing door hangers to the homes in the neighborhoods where the testing will occur. The hangers include contact information, as well as what to expect and when the work will take place.

“If you receive a door hanger, you should immediately pour a gallon of water into floor drains/other plumbing fixtures. The project starts Monday, Sept. 29, and is expected to end on Wednesday, Oct. 1.,” the statement said.

Sections of the following streets will be tested, according to the city:
 
Adolphe Street, Alec Street, Barrows Street, Bearce Avenue, Belleview Avenue, Blanchette Street, Bonnaille Avenue, Brault Street, Bristol Road, Buttonwood Lane, Champlain Avenue, Cornwall Court, Delcliffe Lane, Dingley Street, Donald Avenue, East Avenue (from Leavitt Avenue to Mount View Terrace), Harkins Drive, Hawthorne Place, Leavitt Avenue, Lemont Avenue, MacSullivan Street, Manning Avenue, Montello Street, Moreau Avenue, Morris Avenue, Mountview Terrance, Radio Circle, Roland Avenue, Roy Street, Ryder Street, South Surry Lane, Surry Land, Sutton Place and Wicklow Place.