As part of regular system maintenance, Liberty will conduct smoke tests on wastewater lines in Bolivar, Missouri, with the help of field crews from a company called Trekk Design Group. The testing is scheduled to begin Monday, Nov. 11, and will take place in various locations in the Bolivar community throughout November, weather permitting. Trekk field crews will place door hangers at each home in the affected area prior to starting work.  

What are smoke tests? 

During a smoke test, field crews will force non-toxic smoke into the wastewater system. As the testing occurs, smoke will evacuate from the wastewater manholes or throughout the wastewater line. The visible smoke is part of this routine testing. The smoke is non-toxic, non-staining, has no odor, white to gray in color, creates no fire hazard, and is not harmful to people or pets. 

Why do we conduct this test on our system? 

Smoke tests benefit customers by helping Liberty to identify: 

• Damage to the system 

• Cross connections 

• Blockages 

• Uncapped sewer lines 

How will it affect you? 

The smoke test does not impact wastewater system performance or service to our customers. The smoke used for these tests is non-hazardous. Tests will only take a few hours and will not adversely affect you or your normal day-to-day activities while you are at home. 

If you have received a door hanger informing you of smoke tests in your area, please do not be alarmed if you see smoke. We have informed the fire department that these tests are occurring. Smoke is a normal part of testing. 

If you have questions about the smoke test, please contact Trekk at 1-816-726-4678. You can also call Liberty Customer Service at 1-800-206-2300.