A quick inspection of outdoor displays after rainfall can help reduce potential mosquito breeding sites and lower the risk of dengue
Halloween decorations can add a spooky touch to yards and porches, but they can also create unexpected places for mosquitoes to breed. As residents put out inflatable ghosts, plastic pumpkins, tombstones, and other decorations, Hillsborough County Mosquito Management encourages everyone to check their displays for standing water and eliminate potential breeding sites.
Even small amounts of water can provide a place for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Outdoor decorations can collect rainwater in hollow spaces, recessed surfaces, and other areas that may go unnoticed.
The Aedes aegypti mosquito, responsible for spreading dengue virus in Hillsborough County, is well adapted to living near people and breeding in containers around homes and businesses. Eliminating standing water is an important step residents can take to help reduce mosquito populations.
Check Halloween decorations for standing water
After rainfall, residents should inspect their Halloween displays and surrounding yards for water that may have collected. Pay special attention to:
- Plastic pumpkins and buckets: Empty water that collects inside decorative pumpkins, candy buckets, and other containers.
- Inflatable decorations: Check the bases, stakes, and surrounding areas for puddles or water trapped beneath the display.
- Hollow decorations:** Inspect plastic skeletons, tombstones, lanterns, and other ornaments with openings or recessed areas where water can collect.
- Tarps and decorative coverings: Remove pooled water from coverings placed over decorations, equipment, or outdoor furniture.
- Flowerpots and planters: Empty saucers and remove standing water from containers used to display seasonal plants
Residents should continue to check other outdoor items, including toys, discarded containers, gutters, and yard equipment, that may collect rainwater.
Whenever possible, store decorations in covered areas when they are not in use. For items that remain outdoors, Hillsborough County Mosquito Management suggests positioning the decorations in a way that allows water to drain easily.
Small steps can help prevent mosquito breeding
Mosquito management is especially important as Hillsborough County continues its response to dengue virus. The Aedes aegypti mosquito commonly breeds in small, water-filled containers rather than large bodies of water. That means residents can help by checking their own properties regularly, including seasonal decorations that may be overlooked during routine yard maintenance.
In addition to removing standing water, residents can also protect themselves from mosquitoes by using an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors, wearing clothing that covers exposed skin, and keeping doors and windows properly screened.
By taking a few minutes to inspect Halloween decorations and eliminate standing water, residents can help reduce potential mosquito breeding sites while keeping their seasonal displays ready for trick-or-treaters.
Stay up to date on aerial treatment operations and sign up for notifications about localized treatments through the County's Mosquito Operations webpage.
Mosquito control services are funded in part by Hillsborough County property tax dollars.