PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – The best way to prevent mosquito bites and mosquito-borne diseases is to get rid of their breeding habitats. In preparation for the upcoming mosquito season, the Calvert County Department of General Services Mosquito Control Program asks residents to assist in the control of the pests by inspecting their yards and eliminating standing water.
Any area or container that holds water for a week or more has the potential to produce hundreds or even thousands of mosquitoes. The county Mosquito Control Program team urges residents to take the following steps to help reduce the mosquito population:
• Drain or dump water from tarps, buckets and flower pots.
• Keep roof gutters free of leaves and other debris.
• Fill in tree stump holes from blown over trees as soon as possible.
• Dispose of cans, plastic containers and anything else that can hold water.
• Cover or drill holes in recycling containers or outside trashcans.
• Turn over wheelbarrows, wading pools, children’s toys and other similar items or put them away.
• Store boats covered or upside down.
• Clean and put fresh water in birdbaths or wading pools regularly.
• Make sure your home’s windows and doors have proper screening.
• When outdoors wear light colored long pants and long sleeves.
• Use an approved insect repellent according to manufacturers’ instructions.
The Calvert County Mosquito Control Program provides countywide integrated pest abatement of nuisance and vector (disease carrier) mosquitoes. Learn more about the program by visiting online at www.co.cal.md.us/MosquitoControl. If you have questions about the program, please email mosquitocontrol@co.cal.md.us or call 410- 535-6924.