Summer in Miami-Dade is all about fun—beach days, backyard games, and splashing in the pool. But guess who else loves summer?
Mosquitoes! These tiny pests thrive in warm, rainy weather, but with a few simple tricks, you can Fight the Bite and keep your family safe from itchy, unwanted bites!
1. Drain and Cover Standing Water! Mosquitoes need standing water to breed, so check your yard weekly and drain or cover anything that collects water—like toys, buckets, flower pots, and tarps. Even small puddles can turn into breeding sites! If you have a birdbath or fountain, treat it with Bti, a safe and effective larvicide available online or at hardware stores.
2. Use Bug Spray the Right Way! Before heading outdoors, protect yourself from mosquitoes by using an EPA-registered insect repellent. Apply it to both skin and clothing for maximum protection. Look for repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR-3535, as these ingredients are proven to keep mosquitoes away. Want an extra layer of defense? Picaridin-based sprays can be safely applied to clothing, hats, and even shoes. Prefer a natural option? Oil of lemon eucalyptus works well, but requires more frequent reapplication to remain effective. Stay covered, stay bite-free!
3. Get Help from the Experts! If mosquitoes are taking over your yard, Miami-Dade families can request a free mosquito inspection! Just call 311, visit miamidade.gov/mosquitoinspection, or download the 311Direct Mobile App available for iPhone and Android. A mosquito expert will come to check for hidden breeding spots and help get rid of mosquitoes—for free!
By following these simple steps, you can keep your home and family safe from pesky mosquitoes and enjoy a fun, itch-free summer together! For more tips on mosquito control, visit miamidade.gov/mosquito.
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