The annual regional district mosquito control program has been buzzing since mid-April to reduce the mosquito population.
It usually peaks in the Central Okanagan between mid-June and the end of July.
鈥淪ince mid-April every six to eight days, our crews have been routinely monitoring more than 300 known mosquito development sites,鈥� said Curtis Fediuk with Duka Environmental Services Ltd. 鈥淭he public is encouraged to participate in program success by managing water sources around their properties, supporting natural mosquito predators like birds, bats and dragonflies.鈥�
Help reduce mosquito development by:
- Remove any standing water sources and unused items that collect water such as old tires, plant pots or garbage cans - just a few millimetres of water is all that鈥檚 needed for mosquito larva to survive and hatch;
- Cover rain barrels with a screen to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs in water;
- At least twice a week, change the water in outdoor birdbaths, wading pools and pet bowls;
- Remove water that sits in unused swimming pools and on swimming pool covers;
- Aerate water in ponds or add fish to feed on mosquito larvae.
Residents can protect themselves by:
- Use effective insect repellents and devices;
- Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing;
- Minimize activities near treed and bushy areas at dawn and dusk when adult mosquitoes are most active;
- Repair and replace any window screens to help prevent mosquitoes entering your home.
