What's That Smell? City to Smoke Test Sewers Through March 29

Through March 29, Largo smoke tests will be performed in the lift station # 15 basin. The tests began March 1. 

According to a Largo news release, smoke testing, "is a technique used where nontoxic, artificially created smoke is forced down the manholes. The smoke travels through the sewer collection system and will come out of holes and cracks in the pipes, and un-permitted connections like roof drains connected to the sanitary sewer system."

The general boundaries associated with this portion of the smoke testing are as follows:

• The Northern border is from Dryer Road
• The Eastern border is Trotter Road, 
• To the South is Pine Street 
• To the West and the inter-coastal.

Residents smelling or seeing smoke in their home or business may ventilate the room by opening windows or doors.

The smoke has a distinctive, but not unpleasant, odor that lasts for only a few minutes with proper ventilation, city officials said.

Largo said the smoke creates no fire, and has no ill health effects on humans, pets and plants.

If an individual experiences irritation caused by the smoke, it is recommended that he/she leave the area and ventilate the home or building. In rare cases, if someone feels that he/she is having a medical situation, please seek medical attention.

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