What Should I Do?
Use Mosquito Repellent
Next time you pick up sunscreen, don’t forget insect repellent. Repellent is a vital part of protecting your family from mosquito bites. No matter where you are (home or traveling), repellents can protect you from mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and Zika.
Look for any one of the following active ingredients in repellent:
• DEET
• Picaridin
• IR3535
• Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
Eliminate Standing Water Where Mosquitoes Grow
Turn this into a game for the kids: Find and dump as many water sources around home as fast as they can!
This is one of the simplest things you can do to stop pesky mosquitoes from invading your home.
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Eliminate standing water by dumping or draining water in neglected ponds, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, or anything capable of holding water for more than a few days.
How to inspect your property for mosquito breeding sources
(Psst, use this handy source hunt sheet)
1. Walk your entire property looking for any container both natural and man-made that will hold a teaspoon of water or more
2. Separate containers into three categories and take care of them today: (1) Those that can be thrown away, (2) Those that can be scrubbed down and stored in a dry place, (3) Permanent fixtures that will remain in the yard and require regular inspection
3. Inspect your property weekly and immediately after it rains to dump or drain containers that have collected water
