Source Reduction

            The best method of controlling mosquitoes and the diseases some carry is by source reduction; that is, by eliminating the places mosquitoes breed.  Mosquitoes are hardy and need very little water to lay eggs and hatch into biting adults.  The amount held in a fallen magnolia leaf, plant saucers, pet dishes, bird baths, ponds and plastic chairs can be the source of hundreds of the pesky arthropods.  By keeping anything that holds water emptied or flushed with clean water every two or three days, the likelihood of breeding mosquitoes is greatly reduced.   

Old tires are a prime source of breeding mosquitoes.  Mosquito Control has a Tire Recycling Program available to all residents.  Up to four tires will be removed from a residential property by a Mosquito Control technician upon request. 

Property inspections for residential and businesses are conducted by request to help locate places where mosquitoes are breeding.  Technicians will advise residents about eliminating sources of breeding sites and appropriate treatments are applied.

Tips on eliminating mosquito breeding sites:

·         Clean out eaves, troughs and gutters, wherever leaves or pine needles collect.

·         Remove old tires or drill holes in those used in playgrounds to drain.

·         Turn over or remove empty plastic pots.

·         Pick up all beverage containers and cups.

·         Check tarps on boats or other equipment that may collect water.

·         Pump out bilges on boats.

·         Replace water in birdbaths and pet or other animal feeding dishes at least once a week.

·         Change water in plant saucers, including hanging plants, at least once a week.

·         Remove vegetation or obstructions in drainage ditches that prevent the flow of water.

Personal Protection

Individuals planning to be outdoors during times of mosquito activity are advised to protect themselves from biting mosquitoes with the use of repellents.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend effective mosquito repellents that contain as the active ingredient DEET, Oil of Lemon/Eucalyptus, or Picaridin that are found in widely available over the counter products.  Follow the application directions carefully and check the labels for restrictions of use for infants and children.   

There are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites.  These should include the "5 D's" for prevention:

·         Dusk and Dawn -- Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are seeking blood, for many species this is during the dusk and dawn hours.      
 Dress -- Wear clothing that covers skin.
 DEET -- When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide), Oil of Lemon/Eucalyptus or Picaridin are recommended. Products with concentrations up to 30% DEET are generally recommended for most situations. (It is not recommended to use DEET on children less than 2 months old. Instead, infants should be kept indoors or mosquito netting used over carriers when mosquitoes are present). If additional protection is necessary, apply a permethrin repellent directly to your clothing. Always read the manufacturer's directions carefully before you put on a repellent.
Drainage -- Check your home to rid it of standing water in which mosquitoes can lay their eggs. Elimination of breeding sites is one of the keys to prevention.