Queen Creek Fogging

The Pinal Co. Division of Environmental Health will resume adult mosquito fogging in the Queen Creek area beginning this Thursday thru this Saturday, from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. The area fogged covers Kennedy Dr. to the west, Ocotillo Rd. to the north, Schnepf Rd. to the east (including the Castlegate Subdivision) & Combs Rd. to the south. The planned fogging activities are being done to reduce the number of mosquitoes as potential carriers for WNV, WEE & SLE.

There are several things you can do to reduce spray exposure:
* Close all windows & doors. Air conditioners can operated, but if they have vents to bring in outside air, they should be closed. Vents can be opened 30 minutes after spraying is done.
* Turn off Evaporative coolers until at least 30 minutes after spraying
* Stay inside your home
* Bring pets in side & wait for at least 30 minutes to let them back outside.
* Bring kids toys, pet bowls, & clothes inside. (out door equipment & toys exposed to pesticide can be washed with soap & water.)
* Don't allow kids to play in areas that've just been sprayed for at least 30 minutes. For extra safety, don't let kids play on the grass until it's dry to touch.
* If you have fruit trees or a vegetable garden wash fruits & vegetables before eating

PCDEH advises all county residents to avoid exposure to mosquitoes & the illnesses they may carry by taking the following simple precautions & preventative measures:

* Avoid outside activity between dusk & dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
* If you go out, wear lightweight clothing that covers your arms & legs & apply an EPA-registered insect repellent such as those with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin & clothing (always follow the directions on the label).
* Make sure doors & windows have tight screens, & your home is "bug tight".
* Drain all standing water & check other sites around your yard that might collect water.
* Change water in flowerpots, birdbaths & pet bowls located outdoors 2 times a week.

If you'd like an update & advice on WNV, please call toll-free: 866-287-0209, ext. 6200, or visit the WNV webpage: PINAL WNV. If you'd like additional info on West Nile virus disease please call the Pinal County Public Health hotline toll-free: 866-763-7252.