It’s Warming Up, So Here Come the Mosquitoes
With winter in the rear-view mirror and the cold weather (hopefully) behind us, it’s time to look forward to the latest threat to public health — namely the West Nile virus.
Most of you know the drill. We need to do our part to keep mosquitoes from breeding. So to aid in that effort again this year, volunteers from area Boy Scout troops, Park Cities CERT, and the University Park Youth Advisory Commission will go door-to-door on the next two Saturdays to distribute “Fight the Bite” door hangers throughout the Park Cities.
The hanger contains contact information so residents from either Highland Park or University Park can report standing water or arrange for free property inspections. It also includes some helpful reminders for property owners, which we’ll list after the jump.
- Drain all areas of standing water.
- Change water in wading pools, pet dishes, and birdbaths several times a week.
- Keep backyard pools clean.
- Keep unnecessary plant growth cut back.
- Cover trash can containers so they will not collect water.
- Use automatic sprinkler systems wisely. Don’t over water.
- Clean or replace clogged roof gutters and downspouts.
- While outside during dawn and dusk hours wear long, loose and light-colored clothing.
- Use insect repellents that contain DEET.
Remember also that the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible to the illness. So be careful out there!
