In light of the recent flooding that has impacted most of California, it has created a dangerous breeding ground for mosquitos.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) wants everyone to enjoy the warmer weather but doesn’t want you to fall victim to the dangers that may come due to the recent flooding.
The storms that hit California in February, March, April, and May have left free standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Some mosquitoes can lay their eggs in as little as 1/4” of water and can lay hundreds of eggs at a time—so even very small sources can become a big problem.
The best way to prevent diseases that are spread by mosquitoes is to protect yourself from mosquito bites:
- Use mosquito repellenton clothes and exposed skin when going outdoors (especially at dawn and dusk)
- When outdoors try wearing long sleeves and pants for extra protection.
To keep your family, pets and community protected from mosquitoes, dump out standing water, some common places that mosquitoes like are:
- Rain barrels
- Green pools
- Drainage
- Septic systems
- Indoor plants
- Or debris that has enough room to hold water
Get started with your home mosquito inspection by looking for these common sources of backyard mosquito breeding:
- Flowerpot saucers
- Buckets and containers
- Fountains
- Open trash cans
- Outdoor furniture
- Rain Barrels
- Tarps
- Kid’s Toys
- Kiddie Pools
- Wheelbarrows
- Birdbaths
- Watering Cans
Although Mosquitoes are annoying and can be dangerous, these easy tips above help keep mosquitoes from breeding in your neighborhoods. Cal OES is dedicated to ensuring California recovers from the recent storms, that also includes ensuring we don’t allow mosquitoes to take advantage of us.
For more preparedness tips visit:
- Mosquitoes and Mosquito-Borne Diseases (ca.gov)
- ca.gov | California West Nile Virus Website’
- Zika (ca.gov)
Additional Resources