Smoke Testing

  • Published
  • By Merrie Schilter-Lowe
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. - The 60th Civil Engineer Squadron at Travis Air Force Base, California, is using non-toxic smoke to find cracks and other openings in connections where rainwater might enter the base's sanitary sewer system, beginning Nov. 6.

Testing will continue daily to mid-November – based on weather -- from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., said Kevin Westad, 60th CES project officer.  

Although the smoke is non-toxic, it may cause minor respiratory irritation in some people, he said.     

“If you see smoke in your building, open windows for ventilation and then inform the crew doing the test in your area,” said Westad.  “If you have a bathroom or plumbing fixture that is not used or is seldom used, fill the U-joint under the sink with water. Running the water in the drains for several minutes will prevent smoke from entering the building.” 

Contractors will not need access to buildings as well as security forces and the base fire department have been notified of the dates and locations to be tested, said Westad.