NBU NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 8, 2005
Contact: Gretchen Reuwer, NBU Communications Manager, (830) 629-8486

Smoke tests begin on NBU system

NEW BRAUNFELS—A process of testing the NBU wastewater system for breaks and defects through smoke detection will begin the week of July 11. The testing will be taking place in several neighborhoods around New Braunfels, including sewer lines located over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone as required by the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC).

“Besides ensuring the integrity of lines over the recharge zone, smoke detection allows us to look for defects that may provide inflow sources of rainwater into our own wastewater system,” explains Wesley Hamff, NBU Chief Engineer of Water Systems. “These need to be sealed off to keep from overloading our wastewater system and treatment plants during periods of heavy rain. We will be using a combination of smoke detection and video surveys of the lines to identify areas that may require repair work in the future.”

Residents may see smoke coming from vent pipes on houses or from holes and cracks in the ground during the testing. No smoke should enter a residence, but if there is any sign of smoke inside during testing, it may indicate a possible leak or opening in the household sewer plumbing system.

“Should any smoke enter a residence or business, open several windows and allow it to dissipate,” Hamff says. “Even though the smoke is non-toxic, creates no fire hazard and leaves no visible residue, any smoke in sufficient quantity can be an irritant. It is a good precaution to open windows and move to an area of fresh air until the smoke clears. ”

Any smoke detected inside a home or business should also be reported to the crew conducting the test or to the NBU Water/Sewer Engineering Department at (830) 608-8971 in order for NBU to help determine the cause. Fire department officials have been notified about the smoke detection survey and will be kept informed about the neighborhoods and times that the crews will be active.

“We are delivering information door-to-door in neighborhoods that are being surveyed,” Hamff says. “We are also asking that residents pour water down any drains that have not been used in the last 30 days to fill the traps. That will also prevent smoke from entering the home through the dry traps.”

Smoke testing may also involve opening and entering manholes in streets and easements. Contract crews will be carrying letters of authorization from NBU and must produce these upon request. Workers will not be entering homes or businesses and residents do not have to be at home while the tests are being performed. If you have questions regarding the smoke testing survey, please contact the NBU Water/Sewer Engineering Department at (830) 608-8971.