One of the most important things we do is to educate the public on how to help us help them.

Protect Yourself by Controlling Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance; they are a major threat to public health. Proven preventative, methods effectively control mosquitoes and reduce the risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases such as West Nile virus. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing or slow-moving water.  In residential areas, standing water can accumulate in unused tires, cans, unused pools and pool covers, and other receptacles that collect water. Mosquitoes can enter homes through unscreened windows or doors, or broken screens. Follow the provided general guidelines to help reduce mosquito populations in your area.  Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property by:

• Removing all discarded tires from your property.
• Disposing of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or similar water-collecting containers.
• Making sure roof gutters drain properly and remember to clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.
• Cleaning and chlorinating swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. If not in use, keep empty and covered.
• Draining water from pool covers.
• Changing the water in bird baths at least every 3 or 4 days.
• Turning over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.

Use Insect Repellent Containing DEET

DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is a chemical in repellents that discourages mosquitoes from biting.  It has been available to the public since 1957 and there have been only a handful of toxic exposures when properly used.  Where should you apply DEET - containing repellent?  Read and follow all instruction on product label before applying.  In general, DEET- containing repellent can be applied to:

• Outer clothing and shoes.
• Exposed skin.  Do NOT apply to skin under clothing.
• Do NOT apply to cuts, rashes, sunburned skin, or skin conditions such as psoriasis.
• Do NOT apply directly to face.  First put product on hand, then apply to face.  Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Do NOT apply repellent in rooms without ventilation.
• Wash treated skin with soap and water upon returning indoors.  Wash treated clothes separately.