Officials spraying for mosquitoes in Whitehaven | Health

(WMC-TV) - Workers with the Shelby County Health Department will spray pesticides this week to help keep the mosquito population under control.

But you don't just have to depend on the county to keep the biting bugs at bay. There are things you can do to protect yourself from the insects.

The health department suggests you do the following:

• Wear DEET-containing mosquito repellants according to label directions
• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs. Check properties for objects - including old tires, flower pots and drip plates, tin cans, buckets, and children’s toys - that collect rainwater and either drain or dispose of the water
• Install or repair windows and door screens
• Empty, clean and refill birdbaths and small wading pools weekly
• Empty and refill pets’ water bowls every few days
• Repair failed septic systems
• Repair leaky outside faucets
• Clean rain gutters and down spouts
• Secure swimming pool covers tightly and remove any standing water after rainfall
• Store wheelbarrows, canoes and boats upside down
• Stock ornamental lawn ponds with fish (Gambusia) that eat mosquito larvae (Gambusia fish are available free from the Vector Control Program)

Below is the schedule for mosquito spraying:

Wednesday, August 8 from 8:15 p.m. until 11:15 p.m.

• 38109
• 38116

Thursday, August 9 from 8:15 p.m. until 11:15 p.m.

• 37501
• 38116
• 38118
• 38130
• 38131
• 38132

Monday, August 13 from 8:15 p.m. until 11:15 p.m.

• 38118

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