Depressed housing markets and foreclosures have led to many neglected swimming pools in our area. Pools that are not maintained grow algae and bacteria and are fertile breeding grounds for mosquitoes. With warm spring temperatures approaching, one neglected swimming pool can produce millions of mosquitoes and infect an entire neighborhood putting you and your family at risk for West Nile virus (or just more itchy mosquito bites).
What should I do if someone I know has a neglected swimming pool?
Call the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District at 1-800-429-1022 to report the property.
What can the local mosquito control district do?
• Work with a realtor, or property owner if necessary
• Place mosquitofish in the pool to eat the mosquito larvae
• Put a product in the pool that inhibits or kills the larvae
• Help you decide how to manage the pool so no more mosquitoes are produced
Please note that these actions stop mosquito production; however the pool water may remain dirty and dark until it is properly filtered and chemically maintained. During this time, it is very important to NOT add chlorine to the water because this kills the mosquitofish and allows mosquitoes to re-infest the pool.
For more information call 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net