The City of Dallas announced on May 8 that mosquito control spraying will take place after mosquito samples tested positive for the West Nile Virus. The scheduled spraying will occur between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. from Saturday, May 9 to Sunday, May 10, weather permitting.
The targeted area is generally bounded by Dorothy Nell Drive on the north, Cedar Bluff Lane on the west, Coltview Place on the east, and CF Hawn Freeway on the south in Council District 8 near Garden Grove Drive (75253). The city said that residents should avoid contact with the spray by staying indoors during application times. People inside vehicles while trucks are actively spraying are advised to keep their windows up and air conditioning running until trucks have passed and no spray is visible.
Residents who come into contact with the spray are advised to wash affected areas thoroughly with soap and water. According to city officials, “the spray breaks down quickly in the presence of sunlight and has no residual effect.” People outdoors during scheduled spraying should be alert for trucks and not follow them.
To reduce risk of mosquito bites, Dallas residents are urged to limit outdoor activity during evening and nighttime hours when mosquitoes are most active. Those who must be outside should cover arms and legs and use insect repellent.
The city also encourages residents to eliminate standing water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding sites such as unmaintained swimming pools, stagnant ponds, pet dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires or containers, toys left outside, clogged rain gutters or French drains. Mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in as little as seven days. Free mosquito dunks are available at Code Compliance Services District Offices while supplies last.
Residents can report standing water or other mosquito problems by calling 3-1-1 or request inclusion on the City of Dallas Do Not Spray list through this number. Additional information about local mosquito control efforts is available at www.dallascitynews.net/fightthebite.
