Residents of Water Street in the west end of Summerside are advised by the Department of Health and Social Services that strong odours may be noted during the shoreline clean-up project now underway in their area.
It is usual for odours to be noted near water in which there is a heavy growth of algae. This is due to the release of gases, particularly hydrogen sulfide or rotten egg gas, from decaying plants beneath the algae. However, during the work now being done in the west end of Summerside, pockets of gases are being disturbed and the levels of gases escaping are much higher than usual.
No long-term health problems have been noted among residents of areas where these gases are released; however, it is common to notice a strong odour and some people will experience nausea, headaches and irritation of the eyes and throat. Those who note these symptoms are advised to limit the time they spend outdoors when they have symptoms.