Weather could increase mosquito population in Fountain area this summer
FOUNTAIN, Colo. (KRDO) -- This town south of Colorado Springs is the only municipality in El Paso County -- besides Fort Carson -- that sprays neighborhoods for mosquito control every summer, but recent and upcoming weather conditions could lead to more biting and itching for residents.
A Fountain official said Friday that the recent rainy weather, combined with an increase in vegetation and warmer weather expected next week, will likely multiply the number of mosquitoes beyond what's normal.
Fountain began its annual spraying program early last week; it's done Monday through Thursdays between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. when mosquitoes are most active and people are generally indoors.
The town spends around $42,000 annually on spraying.
Some residents said that they didn't know about the spraying program, but are glad it's being done.
"It's nice to know that now," said Laura Binkowski. "If it's necessary, I guess, I'd be on board with that. That's why I moved here from the East Coast, to get away from mosquitoes. So, hopefully, they won't become a problem here."
Experts advise that you drain any standing pools or containers of water, and keep grasses and weeds mowed, to limit the number of mosquitoes on your property.
Sam Sanchez, owner of Sam's Pest Control, explains how he responds to mosquito calls and what citizens can do to battle the tiny vampires.
"There are safe approaches you can use," he said. "Fogging, there are traps, there are repellents. A lot of safe controls have been developed over time. You can put some briquettes in the water, but generally you want to treat away from water sources. And always wear your PPE (personal protective equipment) when you're doing treatments. Make sure there's minimal people, pets and animals around when you're doing those treatments."
El Paso County Public Health responds to citizen complaints about mosquitoes; for more information, visit: healthinfo@elpasoco.com.
Keeping and using insect repellent in known mosquito-infested areas will also provide protection from the bloodthirsty bugs.
