Residents are being advised not to panic at the sight of smoke coming from the ground in the Blackburn area next week.
Starting the week of Aug. 17, the city will be conducting smoke testing to identify possible leaks in the sewer systems and roof drain connections.
The smoke is non-toxic and not harmful to residents or pets, though if may be irritating to breathe. If any smoke enters a home, residents are advised to open windows to increase ventilation.
OPUS DaytonKnight and their subcontractor Northern Lites Technology are doing an inflow and infiltration study, which includes this smoke testing. The work will take place between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. over one or two weeks, depending on the weather.
Anyone with medical conditions or concerns is asked to contact Brock Bourget, an engineering assistant at the city, at 250-561-7590.