With the recent wet conditions and warm weather, California has created an unwanted breeding ground for mosquitoes. Some parts of California are more susceptible to mosquitoes, knowing where to look and how to identify risks in and around your home can help you Fight the Bite. Since September is considered peak mosquito season, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) wants you to stay safe from mosquitoes. Here are a few steps you and your family can take to prepare for mosquito season and protect yourselves.
Protect Yourself
- Wear mosquito repellant on your skin and clothing.
- Utilize properly fitted door and window screens.
- Wear long sleeves and pants for extra protection.
Remember, mosquitos are most active at dusk and dawn, so try do outside activities during the middle of the day when mosquitos are less likely to be out.
Did you know by day five, mosquitos can begin to breed in still water? Some mosquitos can lay their eggs in as little as ¼” of water—that’s as small as a bottle cap full!
Prevent the Spread!
Get rid of free-standing water sources in or around your home such as:
- abandoned pools and kiddie pools.
- birdbaths
- pet water bowls
- rain barrels
- open trash cans
- wheelbarrows
- watering cans
- any open containers where water can accumulate.
Allow water to flow, for example, if you have a water fountain or pond, please ensure it contains a pump for continuous water movement.
In addition, please allow water to properly drain, ensuring flower bed and pots have drain holes or drain systems. Do not over-water plants so much that water pools around them.
Mosquitoes play an important part of our ecosystem, but they can also spread diseases and be a nuisance. By following these tips, you can protect your family and neighborhood from mosquitoes. For additional tips on mosquitoes and your local vector control, see below:
Best Practices for Mosquito Control Practices in California – California Department of Public Health
Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California
Don’t Give Bugs a Biting Chance (ca.gov)
Guide to Important Mosquitoes in CA
What You Should Know About Mosquito Control and Pesticides (ca.gov)