Mosquito control is an important step in protecting public health because they're more than just annoying pests; they can transmit debilitating and deadly diseases. Below are resources and information to help guide residents in controlling mosquitoes on their property year-round. 

Eliminate Mosquito Sources on Your Property

Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs and create more mosquitoes. Reducing potential mosquito sources in and around your property is the best long-term solution to prevent mosquitoes and mosquito bites. Potential mosquito sources can include:

• Common household items: Sources can include containers, old tires, pet bowls, tarps, rain barrels, and potted plant saucers.
• Building Structures: Sources can include gutters, drainage ditch, sump pumps, window air conditioners, and old playground equipment.
• Backyard, Patio and Garden: Sources can include bird baths, wheelbarrows, ornamental ponds and fountains, outdoor grills, and plants that hold water like bromeliads.
• Children's Toys: Sources can include portable basketball hoops, kiddie pools, wagons, and water play stations.
• Recreation: Sources can include boats, canoes, pool pumps, swimming pools, and spas. 
• Inside the Home: Sources can include flower vases, tree stands, potted plants with saucers, and decorative fountains.

Visit our mosquito solutions page for a comprehensive and recommended solutions: MOSQUITO SOLUTIONS

Eliminate Mosquito Resting Sites

Mosquitoes are not only a problem at dusk and dawn; they can also shelter during the day in cool, shaded areas. Dense vegetation provides the perfect resting sites for mosquitoes. Make your property less inviting to mosquitoes:

• Trim Vegetation: Regularly trim brushes, shrubs, and tall grass. Shaded areas are ideal locations for mosquitoes to rest during the day.
• Clear Debris: Remove any yard waste such as piles of leaves, grass clippings, and woodpiles. These can create damp, dark environments that are ideal for mosquitoes. 
• Switch to Drought Tolerant Landscaping: You can keep mosquitoes out of your yard by switching to California Native Plants. These plants thrive in the region's climate and are overall better for the environment. By watering less, residents are mimimzing sources and foliage that attract mosquitoes. 

Visit our California Native Plants guide to transform your yard and create a bite-free home: CA NATIVE PLANTS

Bite Prevention

Even with reduced breeding and resting sites, it's essential to protect yourself from bites, especially when spending time outdoors. The most effective way to do this is by using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. Here are some tips for effective use:

• Choose the Right Repellent: Use an insect repellent that contains ONE of the four active ingredients that are EPA approved and CDC recommended: DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, and IR3535. 
• Not All Repellents Work: Many products crowd store shelves, but not all repellent products work the same. Avoid using products like repellent bracelents, repellent stickers, repellent fans, candles, tiki torches, bug zappers, and essential oils. These products only provide short-term protection in a specific area and not a person's full body.
• Wear Light and Loose-fitted Clothing: Wear loose-fitted clothing to prevent mosquito bites. Mosquitoes are also attracted to darker colors. Choose clothing that is light in color while outdoors.

Visit our Insect Repellents page for guidance on finding the best repellent for your health: INSECT REPELLENTS

Become a Bite Back Champion

By removing potential mosquito sources, reducing lush, green vegetation that creates resting sites, and applying personal protection with repellents and clothing, residents are one step closer to enjoying the outdoors again. But, vector control is a shared responsility; invite your neighbors to practice these important steps to reduce mosquitoes in your neighborhood.