An Introduction to Mosquito Control
Controlling
mosquitoes, and exposure to the diseases they may carry, is something that can be achieved by chemical and nonchemical methods. Public activities -- such as surveillance and using products to kill mosquito larvae and adult mosquitoes -- are one part of mosquito control. Activities in and around the home are also important.
Home Prevention Strategies
Mosquito control begins at home. Strategies for around the home include:
- Removing their habitat (where they live and breed). Mosquitoes can breed in any puddle that lasts more than four days.
- Eliminating standing water in rain gutters, old tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys, or any other container where mosquitoes can breed.
- Emptying and changing the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week to destroy potential mosquito habitats.
- Draining (or filling with dirt) temporary pools of water.
- Keeping swimming pool water treated and circulating.
- Ensuring window and door screens are "bug-tight."
- Replacing outdoor lights with yellow "bug" lights, which tend to attract fewer mosquitoes than ordinary lights. The yellow lights are NOT repellents, however.
- Wearing headnets, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants if venturing into areas with high mosquito populations, such as salt marshes or wooded areas.
- Using mosquito repellents when necessary, always following label instructions.
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