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Free tire disposal event Sat. Feb. 20th in Wimauma

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HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – Stagnant water in old tires can become a haven for mosquitoes. Residents throughout Hillsborough County will have an opportunity to get rid of those mosquito breeding sites during a free residential tire disposal event on Saturday, Feb. 20 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 16180 West Lake Drive in Wimauma. The event is hosted by Hillsborough County's Solid Waste Division and the Resource Management Rapid Response Team.

The tire collection event is open to all residents of Hillsborough County, including those in Tampa, Plant City, and Temple Terrace. Each residential vehicle will be allowed to drop off up to 10 tires. Businesses cannot participate in this event. Disposal will require at least one form of ID showing a street address: Florida driver's license, Florida vehicle registration, or utility bill.

Residents of unincorporated Hillsborough County can also dispose of up to 12 tires per year at any of the Community Collection Centers by bringing a photo ID and their most recent property tax bill. Community Collection Centers are open Monday through Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the following locations:

Alderman Ford Facility, 9402 S.R. 39, Lithia, (813) 757-3820
Hillsborough Heights Facility, 6209 C.R. 579, Seffner, (813) 744-5533
Northwest County Facility, 8001 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa, (813) 264-3816
South County Facility, 13000 U.S. 41 S., Gibsonton, (813) 671-7611

Avoiding mosquito bites is the best prevention against mosquito-borne illness. Draining water in outside containers and discarding old tires and other items that aren't being used removes mosquito breeding sites in residential areas. Other ways to help prevent mosquito bites are:

  • Empty and Clean birdbaths and pets' water bowls at least once a week.
  • Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don't accumulate water-
  • Maintain the water balance (pool chemistry) of swimming pools. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use. Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
  • Cover up Always wear socks and shoes, long pants, and long-sleeved sleeves.
  • Repellent Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label.

Information on reducing mosquitoes is available at hcfl.gov/Mosquito.
Information on disposal services available through Hillsborough County is available at hcfl.gov/SolidWaste.