mosquito

Lakewood residents might consider heading in early tonight. The city announced they found a mosquito pool that tested positive for the West Nile Virus and will begin spraying the area from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. this evening.

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The area being treated is between Vada on the north, Hillside on the west, Dalgreen on the east and Merrilee on the south.

While the insecticide is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for treatment, residents should avoid contact with the spray by staying indoors.  If you are  inside a vehicle while trucks are actively spraying should remain in their vehicles with the windows up and the air conditioner on until the trucks pass and the spray is no longer visible. Persons out during the scheduled spraying time should be alert for trucks and should not follow them. Residents who come in contact with the spray are advised to wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. The spray breaks down quickly in the presence of sunlight and has no residual effect.

Dallas residents are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites by reducing outdoor activity during evening and nighttime hours. Residents who are outside during these times should cover their arms and legs and use a mosquito repellent.

Residents should eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and the spread of West Nile Virus. Breeding places for mosquitoes include swimming pools that are not kept clean, stagnant ponds, pet watering dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys and clogged rain gutters and French drains. Standing water should be eliminated promptly, as mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in as little as seven days.

To report standing water or mosquito problems call 3-1-1. For additional information on mosquito control, visitwww.dallascitynews.net/fightthebite.