The City of Rochester will be conducting smoke testing of the sanitary sewer on Pickering Road and along the Cocheco River, starting Thursday, September 21st, 2023, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The purpose of smoke testing is to locate sources of rainwater entering the sanitary sewer. During the test, white smoke is introduced to the sanitary sewer system via a smoke-generating machine.  During this procedure, white smoke will be venting from holes in manhole covers located in the street and from plumbing vent pipes located on or near your roof surface. THIS IS NORMAL AND SHOULD NOT CAUSE ALARM.

Smoke should not enter your premises unless there is either a dry trap in an unused fixture or a plumbing defect.  You may wish to pour two gallons of water down your basement floor drain or unused plumbing fixture to ensure that the drain trap will be effective.

Should smoke be detected within your building, do not be alarmed.  The smoke is NON-TOXIC, NON-STAINING, and dissipates quickly through open windows.  IF YOU HAVE A LUNG AILMENT or RESPIRATORY CONDITION SUCH AS ASTHMA OR EMPHYSEMA, STAY AWAY FROM THE SMOKE.  Any smoke within a building should be immediately reported to the persons conducting the tests.

Any questions should be directed to the Department of Public Works, (603) 332-4096. Please leave a message including your name, address, and telephone number and you will be responded to promptly.