Mosquito Spraying
In a continued effort to proactively fight the mosquito population and help prevent West Nile Virus, the City of North Richland Hills will conduct ground level spraying in a portion of the city on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, August 5, 6, and 7, 2015. The spraying will focus on the areas generally shown in yellow on the map below:
The spraying, which is dependent upon the weather, will begin at 8:30 p.m. The city will use its Everbridge telephone system to notify residents in the area to be sprayed.
This action is being taken after mosquito samples from 6801 Glenview Drive tested positive for West Nile Virus. While the City is working proactively to control mosquito populations and lower the threat of West Nile virus, citizen involvement and personal protection is essential.
The most effective means of protection, even more protective than ground level spraying, is to use mosquito repellent with DEET and to eliminate standing water around your homes and neighborhoods. You should also avoid spending time outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes that may carry West Nile Virus are most active. You can find more information about preventing West Nile Virus atwww.nrhtx.com/mosquitocontrol.
Ground level spraying conducted by the city is done by licensed professionals using pesticide that is EPA-approved as being safe for humans and the environment. While the pesticide is approved by the EPA, residents who are concerned about exposure are advised to take the following precautions:
- Avoid being outside while spraying occurs, close windows and consider keeping pets inside.
- If skin or clothes are exposed, wash them with soap and water.
- Rinse homegrown fruits and vegetables with water as a general precautionary measure.
- Cover small ornamental fish ponds.
- Because the chemical breaks down quickly in sunlight and water, no special precautions are suggested for outdoor swimming areas.
In addition spraying, ponds, creeks and drainage channels in North Richland Hills continue to be treated regularly with mosquito larvicide.
Questions regarding ground level spraying may be directed to the Public Works Department at 817-427-6460. Other general questions regarding West Nile Virus and preventative measures may be directed to the Neighborhood Services Department at 817-427-6650.
