For Immediate Release:
April 22, 2015
Fight the bite with Monmouth County!
County officials encourage residents:
prepare for tick and mosquito season
FREEHOLD, NJ – With spring showers come more than just flowers. Ticks and mosquitoes are on the move and Monmouth County officials remind residents to be prepared.
“The flowers are beginning to bloom and the weather is getting milder. These beautiful signs of spring also symbolize the beginning of tick and mosquito season,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Serena DiMaso. “Now is the time to prepare your home and protect yourself from ticks and mosquitoes.”
You can help reduce the mosquito population by eliminating sources where mosquitoes live and breed. Eliminate any sources of standing water and don’t overwater your lawn. Dispose of all useless containers and those that must be kept should be turned upside down. Tires, especially, can provide a breeding place for thousands of mosquitoes.
To identify ways residents can help reduce the mosquito population, Monmouth County has created a Mosquito Habitat Checklist which is available on www.visitmonmouth.com.
“Even though ticks and mosquitoes are two of the few things we don’t like about spring, it is not a reason to avoid the beautiful outdoors,” said DiMaso. “Get out and enjoy the sunshine, plant in your garden and take in the beauty around you. By taking proper precautions and being extra vigilant, you can enjoy all those things despite the critters that crawl or fly.”
When enjoying the outdoors, whether at home or while traveling, make sure to always wear insect repellent. Repellents that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus will help protect you and your family from both ticks and mosquitoes.
“Wear light colored clothing so a tick will be easier to spot,” added DiMaso. “And always check yourself, and your children, for ticks after spending time outdoors.”
For more information, call Monmouth County Mosquito Control at 732-542-3630 or visit www.visitmonmouth.com.
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