City of Dallas reminds residents to “drain after the rain”

DALLAS -- The City of Dallas reminds the public to “drain after the rain” to help reduce the mosquito population. Wet weather followed by warm temperatures can create ideal mosquito breeding conditions, so residents should remain vigilant and eliminate standing water.

Breeding places for mosquitoes include swimming pools that are not kept clean, stagnant ponds, pet watering dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys, clogged rain gutters and French drains. Mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in as little as seven days.

The City of Dallas continues to take a proactive approach to “fight the bite” in 2015 with Public Service Announcements, billboards, brochures and community meetings. The City will maintain 90 mosquito traps weekly until October. Ground spraying activities for mosquito control will be based on a positive West Nile Virus mosquito trap result from a public health laboratory or a consistently high count of mosquitoes in traps.

Additionally, ground spraying may occur if a confirmed human case of the Chikungunya Virus is detected in the City of Dallas by the State Health lab. Locations of all ground spraying activities along with a map will be posted on the City’s website approximately 4 to 7 hours prior to spraying.

People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes. Citizens should employ the 4 Ds’ to avoid mosquito bites:

Defend yourself by using insect repellents – Follow label instructions
Dress in long sleeves and pants, loose and light colored clothing when you go outside
Dusk and dawn, stay indoors during this time to avoid mosquitoes when they are most active
Drain standing water and install or repair window screens

To report standing water Dallas residents should call 3-1-1. For additional information on mosquito control visitwww.dallascityhall.com.