Mosquito misting

Published on 28 July 2016

Council ramps up Mosquito misting

Rockhampton Regional Council has ramped up its mosquito misting program this month in response to increased requests following recent rain events and is proactively misting known hot spots around the Region.

Residents and visitors can reduce risk of mosquitos in and around your home by removing sources that contain water where mosquitos can breed and protect yourself by wearing long sleeved, loose-fitting clothing when outside and use insect repellent.

Preventative measures include:

•          Inspecting your house and yard and removing any accumulation of water
•          Empty pot plant bases weekly or fill the base with sand to absorb water
•          Wash out water-holding plants weekly
•          Clean out roof gutters regularly and trim back trees which can block gutters
•          Ensure rainwater tanks are screened
•          Maintain swimming pools
•          Wash out birdbaths and ornamental pools weekly
•          Ensure ponds are stocked with suitable native fish
•          Store anything that can hold water undercover or in a dry place, including work equipment, surplus materials or trailers, and keep bins covered
•          Throw out any rubbish lying around like unused or empty containers, tyres, additional materials and keep worksites tidy.

What you can do to protect yourself:

•          Screen all windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes coming inside
•          Wear long sleeved, loose-fitting clothing when outside
•          Use insect repellent
•          If you live in an unscreened house or are camping, sleep under a mosquito net
•         Air-conditioning, fans and mosquito coils are also effective in protecting you from mosquitoes.

ENDS