Owner`s manual

After a flood, mosquitoes, flies
and other insects may be more
abundant than usual, posing
potential health problems. Filth
and debris left by the storm
create excellent breeding
conditions for houseflies and
mosquitoes, some of which may
be capable of spreading typhoid,
dysentery and encephalitis. The
key to controlling insects is
removal of their breeding
places–any standing water,
especially stagnant water. In
warm weather this should be
done immediately after you
return to the premises.
Additional resources:
Your county agricultural agent
ELIMINATE BREEDING SPOTS
® Empty water from barrels, old tires, cans and other vessels. In
addition to being a breeding place for insects, this water may be
polluted by floodwaters. Check clogged gutters and flat roofs that
have poor drainage. Make sure cisterns, cesspools, septic tanks, fire
barrels and rain barrels are covered tightly.
® Drain ponds, pools or any standing water in which mosquitoes may
breed.
® If drainage is impossible, treat water puddles still standing after a
week with larvicide as recommended by a county Extension agent.
® Dispose of refuse. Bury animal carcasses as soon as possible. Remove
garbage at least once every week. Be sure garbage cans have tightly
fitting lids. When using manure and garbage as a fertilizer, spread it
thinly so it will dry quickly and not support fly development.
MAKE REPAIRS
Patch screens and other places where mosquitoes may enter buildings.
SPRAYS AND REPELLENTS
Use a household spray or an aerosol bomb to kill mosquitoes, flies or other
insects that get into buildings. Spray shrubbery and shaded areas of
buildings to kill adult insects. Contact your county Extension agent for
specific recommendations.
If possible, keep small children indoors, especially in the evening. If you
must go outside at dusk, use a repellent on exposed parts of your body and
clothing.
Information from: University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension, Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension Service
University of Wisconsin-Extension • Cooperative Extension FLOOD-SANITATION
Controlling Insects After Flooding
HOW TO MINIMIZE MOSQUITO, FLY AND OTHER INSECT PROBLEMS