COLUMBIA (WACH) -- Officials in Richland County are getting ready to squash the mosquito population.
The Mosquito Control Program finds areas with a lot of mosquitoes and tries to cut down that number by treating larva and spraying for adult bugs in communities.
Truck spraying usually takes place in the middle of the night, but officials say it could start earlier in the evening.
If you have any allergies to the chemicals used in the spray, resmethrin or permethrin, or are a beekeeper contact officials at 576-2910.
You can also help keep down the mosquito population on your own by following a few simple steps:
- Use personal insect repellents that contain DEET or Picaridin according to label instructions
- Clear drainage ditches of debris and weeds
- Pack tree holes with sand or cement
- Empty, overturn or remove water-holding containers such as tires, cans, bottles, buckets, flower pots, etc.
- Clean leaves and pine needles from clogged roof gutters
- Keep boats drained and covered (covers should be taut) or overturned
- Stock ornamental ponds with top-feeding minnows.
- Maintain swimming pools properly
- Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths and containers used to root plants at least once a week
- Make sure there are screens on rain barrels to prevent mosquitoes from accessing the collected water and use the water as soon as possible
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