The most effective way to prevent mosquitoes from staying and breeding is to remove standing water to reduce mosquito larvae before they become adult flying mosquitoes. Even the smallest of containers that can collect water can breed hundreds to thousands of mosquitoes (bottles, barrels, buckets, drains, overturned garbage can lids, etc.) All mosquitoes require water in which to breed. Mosquitoes lay eggs near/in water because the larvae need water to survive.

* Clear roof gutters of debris and standing water. * Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers. * Potted plants, especially with water reservoirs * Check and empty children’s toys. * Repair leaky outdoor faucets/drains & sprinklers * Mulch that stays moist can harbor mosquitoes. * Empty water collected in tarps around the yard or on woodpiles. * Water fountains/ponds where water is not constantly moving * construction areas - the bottom of porta pottys need to be drained and kept dry * Over-watering grass areas can also contribute to the breeding of mosquitoes. * Be sure to drain any standing water, drains that do not drain or are broken need to be treated

Treatment Both larvae and pupae live in standing water or continuously moist organic matter. For standing water that cannot be dumped or drained, a larvicide can be used to kill larvae. Once the adults have developed it is much more difficult to kill the mosquitoes due to the fact that they are mobile and not sitting in one area. Traps can be set up, fogging can be possible in certain situations, but getting rid of mosquitoes is a process that can take months depending on if the source can be identified. The best course of action is to not let mosquitoes develop in your area.