Mosquito Prevention

 

The City of Waukegan's organized mosquito control program draws on the principles of integrated pest management. This strategy is guided by surveillance of mosquito populations and knowledge of the mosquito life cycle and includes the following measures:

• Source reduction - the removal of mosquito breeding habitats.

• Habitat modification - manipulating habitats to reduce breeding.

• Biocontrol - introducing natural predators of mosquitoes.

• Larvicide - using pesticides to reduce larval populations.

• Adulticide - using pesticides to reduce adult populations.

 

What can you do to help?

 

Mosquitoes lay up to 250 eggs at a time in still water, which will hatch in 7 to 10 days. If standing water is eliminated weekly, many mosquitoes will be kept from breeding in the first place, eliminating the need to use pesticides against adult mosquitoes. This also reduces the number of mosquitoes around the house. Here is a checklist and some things you can do:

• Check for items that might hold water including wheelbarrows, tires, hubcaps, toys, garden equipment, pool covers, tarps, plastic sheeting, pipes, drains, boats, canoes, recycling bins and trash.

• Remove standing water in ponds, ditches, clogged rain gutters, flower pots, plant saucers, puddles, buckets, jars and cans.

• Completely change water in birdbaths and wading pools weekly. Drill drainage holes in tire swings.

• Stock ornamental ponds and fountains with fish that eat mosquito larvae.

• Avoid mosquitoes by staying indoors at dawn and dusk when they are most active.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants while outdoors.

• Apply insect repellent that contains DEET. Follow directions carefully.

• Install or repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out.

 

 

To report mosquito infestations or probable breeding areas, call the Mosquito Hotline at (800) 942-2555.

 

For more information on Waukegan's mosquito abatement strategy, contact Waukegan Public Works at (847) 360-0944. You can also visit the website for our mosquito control contractor, Clarke Mosquito Control by clicking the following graphic: