The Town of Smithers has some tips to deal with the side effects of its water flushing program:
The Town of Smithers Works and Operations Department will be conducting a flushing program beginning Monday, May 4 until approximately Friday, May 29.
One week prior to the flushing program beginning, chlorine will be added to the system in controlled quantities, to offset iron, bacteria, silts and other substances that have settled out of the water and become lodged in the distribution system. Users will probably be able to detect the taste or odour of this chlorine until approximately June 5.
The quantity of chlorine injected into the system will not be allowed to exceed two milligrams per litre and will not be injurious to your health. This is a normal year-round chlorination dosage in many communities. Anyone finding this taste or odour objectionable will be able to quickly dissipate it by allowing a container of water to stand with the surface uncovered for a short time, or by boiling the water for a couple of minutes.
If, during the course of the flushing program, the water from your taps becomes coloured or dirty, please run taps continuously for a period of time, and you will find that the problem will clear up. Should that action not correct any problem with taste, colour or odour, contact the Town at 250-847-1649.
Also, by running your taps prior to laundry washing and avoiding the use of chlorine bleach in your laundry during the course of the flushing program, you will minimize the possibility of laundry staining caused by manganese.
The Town would like to thank water users for their patience and co-operation during the Flushing Program. Our aim is to provide the community with the best quality of water possible.