Homeowners can eliminate breeding sites on their properties by eliminating standing and stagnant water. Adult mosquitos can be flying in one week after hatching under the right conditions. The following practices have proven to be effective in reducing mosquito populations:
• Empty, remove, cover or turn upside-down any receptacle that can hold water--particularly old bottles, tin cans, and old tires.
• Empty small toddler-size wading pools weekly and make sure your swimming pool is cared for properly.
• Change water in birdbaths weekly. Empty pets' water pans daily.
• Clean clogged roof gutters. Individuals can also use personal repellents or area repellents for limited areas, such as patios and gardens. Neither electric "zappers" (ultraviolet) nor "buzzers"? (sonic) have been found to significantly reduce biting to humans.