Mosquito Protection Tips

In order to get rid of mosquito and its bites, always remember the 7D rule:

Drain :

Many mosquito problems in your neighborhood are likely to come from water-filled containers that you, the resident, can help to eliminate. All mosquitoes require water in which to breed. Be sure to drain any standing water around your house:

  • Dispose of any tires. Tires can breed thousands of mosquitoes.
  • Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers.
  •  Clear roof gutters of debris.
  •  Clean pet water dishes regularly.
  •  Check and empty children's toys.
  •  Repair leaky outdoor faucets.
  •  Change the water in bird baths at least once a week.
  •  Canoes and other boats should be turned over.
  •  Avoid water collecting on pool covers.
  •  Empty water collected in tarps around the yard or on woodpiles.
  • Plug tree holes.
  • Even the smallest of containers that can collect water can breed hundreds to thousands of mosquitoes. They don't need much water to lay their eggs. (bottles, barrels, buckets, overturned garbage can lids, etc.)

But that still leaves the standing water that you wish to keep, such as that in swimming pools and water fountains. How can you kill the mosquito larvae which may be lurking in these places?

  • Keep swimming pools clean, aerated and chlorinated.
  • A bacteria called "Bti" (Bacillus thuringiensis) is often used for mosquito larvae control in standing water.
  • Aerate artificial ponds.
  • Avoid the temptation to mass aquatic plants together excessively in artificial ponds (mosquito larvae can hide from the fish if the vegetation is dense).

But which fish are the best eaters of mosquito larvae? Minnows and goldfish are common denizens of artificial ponds, and they do a fine job of eating mosquito larvae. But another fish, Gambusia affinis, has acquired such a reputation as an eater of mosquito larvae that it has been nicknamed, "mosquitofish." Contact your local municipality regarding the availability of mosquitofish in your area. Formerly an obscure species, the mosquitofish is now enjoying the limelight due to the West Nil virus.

Door and window screens should be in good working conditions.This will prevent mosquitos from entering your home.

District personnel are on hand to help you concerning any mosquito problem you may be experiencing.

Dawn and Dusk are time to avoid.This is the time when mosquitos are most active.

Dress :

Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing. Some of the 176 mosquito species are attracted to dark clothing and some can bite through tight-fitting clothes. When practical, wear long sleeves and pants.

Defend :

Choose a mosquito repellent that has been registered by the Environmental Protection

Agency. Registered products have been reviewed, approved, and pose minimal risk for human safety when used according to label directions. Three repellents that are approved and recommended are:

  • DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide)
  •  Picaridin (KBR 3023)
  •  Oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-methane 3,8- diol, or PMD)

Here are some rules to follow when using repellents: 

  •  Read the directions on the label carefully before applying.
  •   Apply repellent sparingly, only to exposed skin (not on clothing).
  •    Keep repellents away from eyes, nostrils and lips: do not inhale or ingest repellent or get them into the eyes.  

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that DEET-based repellents can be used on children as young as two months of age. Generally, the AAP recommends concentrations of 30% or less.

  • Avoid applying repellents to portions of children's hands that are likely to have contact with eyes or mouth.
  • Pregnant and nursing women should minimize use of repellents. 
  •  Never use repellents on wounds or irritated skin.
  • Use repellent sparingly and reapply as needed. Saturation does not increase efficacy.
  •  Wash repellent-treated skin after coming indoors.
  • If a suspected reaction to insect repellents occurs, wash treated skin, and call a physician. Take the repellent container to the physician.

Using a mosquito trap may also be considered but first eliminate standing water and pools of water near your yard or surrounding areas.It will greatly diminish the likelihood of mosquito larva hatching and engulfing your yard during peak seasons.

There are some useful reports online from the USDA Mosquito and Fly research station in Florida where they tested various mosquito traps against each other. Amazon.com sells mosquito traps and their customer review and feedback section is quite informative with pluses and minuses to each product.