Controlling mosquitoes around your home

Mosquitoes that breed around houses can transmit diseases such as Ross River Virus, Barmah Forest and Dengue Fever to humans, and heartworms to dogs.

Under the Public Health Regulation 2005, it is an offence to have mosquitoes breeding in water at a place and penalties may apply.

Below are some great ideas to help you control mosquitoes around the home:

• Pot plant bases: Preferably dispose of the base altogether. Alternatively, empty and clean the base weekly or put sand in it to absorb the water.
• Tins, tyres, jars, toys and rubbish items: Any items left lying around the yard that hold water will breed mosquitoes. Store under cover and dispose of all unwanted items.
• Roof gutters: Clean out leaves and other debris regularly. Cut back and trim trees. Blocked gutters will breed mosquitoes.
• Bromeliads and other water holding plants: Other than removing the plants altogether use a high pressure hose to remove any mosquito larvae.
• Rainwater, wells and drums: Large water holding containers must be screened with wire gauze no coarser than 1mm mesh.
• Bird baths, fish ponds and ornamental ponds: Clean weekly to remove mosquito larvae. Keep Australian native fish in your ponds.
• Swimming pools: Keep chlorinated and regularly operate the pool pump all year round.
• Drains or depressions: Maintain drains to allow for water flow. Fill in any depressions to prevent water pooling.

For further information refer to North Burnett Regional Council’s website or contact Council’s Environmental Health staff by phone on  1300 696 272 (1300 MY NBRC) or email Council.