The Utilities Department conducts smoke testing to find defects in sewer infrastructure. Non-toxic, artificially created smoke is used because it’s highly visible and can quickly reveal damage.
The next smoke testing activity is scheduled from June 16 to July 8 for homes and businesses in mid-county:
- List of addresses that may notice smoke in front of their property
- Map of area impacted
- Questions? Residents may contact the project representative:
- Phone: 941-421-7880
- Email: projectinfo@WWSAssessment.com
Mead & Hunt is the consultant for the County that will be conducting this testing.
What to expect
Testing should not affect homes and businesses, however, property owners are strongly encouraged to pour water down seldom-used drains prior to testing, especially any floor drains. This should prevent smoke from entering and setting off smoke alarms unnecessarily.
If residents see smoke during a test, they should not be alarmed:
- The smoke does not create a fire hazard and is not harmful to humans, pets, food, plants or material goods.
- It does not leave a residue or stain and has a discreet, non-objectionable scent.
- Visibility and aroma last for only a few minutes where there is adequate ventilation.
If residents feel they do have an emergency, they should call 9-1-1.
What to do
- Under normal circumstances, the smoke should exhaust harmlessly through vent stacks during testing.
- Property owners do not need to be home and at no time will Utilities Department employees need to enter residences.
- Crews may be in your area for several hours, but the actual testing typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes.
Addressing infrastructure defects on private property discovered from testing is the responsibility of the property owner. The owner will be notified if defects are found.