WHO/WHEN:
The Town of Bradford has retained GM BluePlan Engineering and AMG Environmental to complete fog testing on the sanitary sewers servicing your area. The fog testing works will begin May 2024 and scheduled for completion by end of June 2024 (weather dependent).
WHAT/WHERE:
Fog testing consists of blowing fog into the sewers and canvassing the area above ground to document locations where fog is observed (e.g., from catch basins). The fog used in the test has no odour, is not harmful to your health, and will disappear within a few minutes. The area to be tested is shown on the map outlined in blue.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO:
- Check to see that all plumbing traps under sinks, washing facilities and floor drains have water in them. Pour a few cups of water into your basement floor drains, and any sinks, showers, or other plumbing fixtures before fog testing begins.
- If fog enters your home and you experience fog irritation, please leave the affected area and the irritation will quickly subside. Staff members from the Town, GM BluePlan, and AMG will be onsite to assist.
- If you, or any member of your family have a health condition that you feel we need to be aware of please contact the Town representative listed below.
The fire department has been notified of the streets being tested. If you have doubt about the origin of fog and/or suspect a fire, always contact the fire department at 911. Otherwise, please call the non-emergency communications line at 905-775-7311 and they can determine if the fog is related to the testing or if the fire department needs to be dispatched.
More information about the project, including a more detailed schedule plan, can be found at: https://www.townofbwg.com/en/business-development/bradford-urban-area-inflow-and-infiltration-study.aspx
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the fog harmful?
No – the fog used for fog testing is the same as what is commonly used on stage in theatrical productions to simulate a smoke effect. The fog is not harmful to your health and will not harm pets, clothing, draperies, or furniture.
What should I do to prepare for fog testing?
Ensure all plumbing traps have water in them as soon as you receive this notice. To do so, pour a few cups of water down each drain, sinks, washing facilities and floor drains. You may also wish to leave a few upstairs windows open a small amount, if you feel it is safe to do so during the testing period.
Do I need to stay home for the duration of the test?
No, you do not need to be home when testing is being performed.
What is the purpose of fog testing?
The purpose of the testing is primarily to find potential points where storm water enters sanitary sewers, resulting in higher risks of basement flooding and increased wastewater treatment costs.
What does it mean if fog enters my house?
It might mean there are deficiencies in the plumbing that may also allow sewer gas to enter your home. The common cause are dry plumbing traps that allow fog to enter.
What should I do if fog enters my house?
If fog does enter your home, note the location of the fog, pour some water down the drain and open windows for ventilation. Contact the Town at and the on-site representatives will be notified to visit your address.
If fog gets into the house, how long does it take to dissipate?
The fog will dissipate in a few minutes. Open windows for ventilation.
What happens next?
You will be contacted only if we found something to report.
Where can I find more information?
More information about the project, including a more detailed schedule plan, can be found here: https://www.townofbwg.com/en/business-development/bradford-urban-area-inflow-and-infiltration-study.aspx
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Marcio Marques, P.Eng,
Project Manager, Capital Projects
Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury
305 Barrie Street - Unit 2, Bradford, ON
Office: 905 775 5366 ext. 2114
Mobile: 289 383 6232
