How to Spray for Mosquitoes After a Hurricane

Mosquito populations typically surge after hurricanes if left unchecked due to the increased amount of standing water that exists in a hurricane's wake. Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance. They can be a major cause of diseases such as malaria and the West Nile virus. Government officials often monitor mosquito populations after a hurricane strikes so that they can spray them using air drops from airplanes when spraying will have the most effect. Nevertheless, if you are spraying for mosquitoes yourself after a hurricane, do not over-expose your home and yard to chemicals.

Mosquito dunks
B.t.i.-based pesticide

Instructions

- 1
  Remove as much standing water from your home and the surrounding area as you can. Mosquitoes use standing water as a location to lay eggs, so reducing the amount available helps limit their options and gives you less places to spray.
- 2
  Drop mosquito dunks into any standing water in the area that can't be removed. These are mosquito toxins that are designed to release into water to kill off mosquito larvae before they can mature. This will help make your spraying more effective and efficient.
- 3
  Spray the interior of your home with B.t.i., which is a pesticide containing Bacillius thuringiensis, a bacterium that is non-toxic to people and pets but lethal to mosquitoes. Follow all instructions on the packaging to ensure you use the correct amount.
- 4
  Follow the news reports because government officials will likely do their own spraying shortly after a hurricane strikes. While the spraying will not harm you since it also uses B.t.i., if you are concerned about skin exposure either wear long sleeves and pants or stay indoors that day.

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