Downtown building owners need to be aware that smoke in their buildings does not always mean fire.

The City of Natchez is in the process of checking for leaks in its sewer system by blowing harmless smoke into them.

On Friday, contractor Georgetown Construction continued the 200-day project in the downtown area. The Natchez Fire Department received several calls Friday from people reporting smoke scares.

&uot;We had three of those this morning,&uot; said Commander Stan Owens of the Natchez Fire Department. &uot;It scares the people – it scares us.&uot;

Smoke scares took place Friday on North Canal, South Wall and South Pearl streets.

The smoke can enter homes when:

— Vents connected to a building’s sewer pipes are inadequate, defective or improperly installed.

— Traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers and other drains are dry, defective, improperly installed or missing.

— Pipes, connection and seals if the waste water drain system in and under a building are damaged, defective, have plugs mission or are improperly installed.

Residents should contact Natchez Water Works if they notice any leaks.

The city is not responsible for repairs on private property.