Source Reduction
Source reduction is a very effective way of controlling mosquitoes around homes. Containers around residential properties often hold water in the summer months and are the perfect source for mosquitoes. By routinely dumping standing water around your property, you can help to limit the number of mosquito bites you get. Remember, the mosquitoes growing around your house are biting YOU! Common items to look for include bird baths, trash cans, discarded tires, clogged gutters, bromeliad plants, flowerpot bases, rain barrels and more. Anything that holds water for more than 5 days should be dumped to prevent mosquitoes.
If emptying a water source is not practical, ensure you take preventive measures to prevent it from becoming a mosquito source. Entrance and overflow drain locations on rain barrels can often be covered with screens to prevent mosquitoes from accessing. Products can also be found at home improvement stores and online to control mosquito larvae.