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Mosquitoes are loving the rains that the summer season has brought so far and Pinellas County Mosquito Control asks all citizens to do their part to reduce the mosquito population.
Empty water from old tires, flowerpots, garbage can lids, recycling containers, boat tarps and buckets. Eliminate standing water near plumbing drains, air conditioner drips, septic tanks or rain gutters.
Flush birdbaths and wading pools weekly. Flush bromeliads twice weekly or treat with a biological larvicide.
- Change the water in outdoor pet dishes daily.
- Keep pools adequately chlorinated.
- Stock ornamental ponds with mosquito-eating gambusia fish.
- Cover rain barrels with fine mesh screening.
- Repair rips or tears in door and window screens.
In addition, follow preventive measures consisting of the 3 Ds:
- Drain standing water around the home.
- Dress in light colors and wear loose fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs.
- Defend yourself by using mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
By taking these simple precautions, residents can help reduce the number of mosquitoes and minimize mosquito-borne diseases. |
