Sanitary sewer smoke testing
During smoke testing, field crews blow smoke into sewers then monitor where the smoke exits.
The Region performs sewer smoke testing to identify connection points for downspouts, catch basins and other water inlets and to see if they’re connected to the sanitary sewer or storm sewer systems.
Current smoke testing area
We are doing smoke testing in Caledon Ward 5 and Mississauga Wards 4, 6, and 7.
Smoke testing is safe
The smoke we use for testing:
- Is odourless.
- Isn’t harmful to your health.
- Will not harm pets, clothing, draperies or furniture.
- Will disappear within minutes.
Smoke testing in your neighbourhood
If smoke testing is scheduled in your neighbourhood, you’ll get a notice in the mail.
You do not need to be home when testing is taking place.
If you or a member of your household have a health condition you feel we need to be aware of, contact the Region of Peel at 905-791-7800, ext. 4409.
For daily smoke testing updates follow us on Twitter @peelpublicworks, which can be viewed without signing in.
How to prepare for the test
Pour a few cups of water into all floor drains, sinks, showers and other plumbing fixtures when you receive the notice. This ensures that all plumbing traps under sinks, washing facilities and basement floor drains have water in them.
Add water to your plumbing fixtures only once. There’s no need to keep adding water.
Smoke in your home during testing
If smoke enters your home, identify the drain it is coming from and pour some water down it. You can also open some windows and doors to help disperse the smoke quicker.
If the smoke is a nuisance to you, leave the affected room until testing is complete (10-15mins).
The fire department will be notified of the streets being tested. If you do not know where the smoke is coming from, contact the fire department or non-emergency communications line at 905-456-5700 and they can determine if the smoke is related to the testing or if the fire department needs to be dispatched.
Contact us
For more information or to report smoke in your home during testing, call the Region at 905-791-7800, ext. 4409.
