LAPLACE — It’s no secret mosquitoes are prevalent during the summertime in the River Parishes, but what many may not know is there are several ways to help control the swarms of mosquitoes bugging you, your family and your pets.

Sam Stines, assistant general manager of Mosquito Control Services LLC, spoke at the June 24 St. John the Baptist Parish Council meeting about steps residents should take to fight off mosquitoes. St. John Parish contracts with Mosquito Control Services for routine spraying and specialty situations.

Stines said something as small as a bottle cap of water is all it takes for disease-carrying mosquitoes to breed.

He touted Mosquito Control’s website, mosquitocs.com, and urged all residents to check it for protection tips and additional information about the services the parish receives.

According to the site, you can increase your family’s protection from mosquitoes by doing the following:

• Drain, flush and discard anything that might collect water, such as potted plants, barbecue grills, gutters, boats and toys, such as tire swings and Frisbees.

• Keep lawn mowed to reduce adult mosquito resting sites.

• Fill in any low spots in your yard that might collect water.

• Flush bird baths at least once a week.

• Replace water in pet bowls often.

• Remove vegetation and debris from drainage ditches.

• Keep pools clean and in operating condition.

• Clean ponds and stock with minnows.

• Repair torn window screens.

• Turn boats upside down.

• Use insect repellent and cover up at dawn and dusk – when mosquitoes are most active.

Stines said in addition to routine sprays, residents may request their yard or property receive additional attention if they are planning an outdoor event.

He said it’s best to notify the department at least a few days in advance if a specialty spray is desired.

Entomologist Steven Pavlovich of Mosquito Control said the company is planning on additional sprays for areas up and down River Road in preparation of families attending the parish’s July 3 Independence Day celebrations.

For service requests or concerns, call 985-536-6530.