Dallas' Code Compliance Services Department will give free mosquito dunks to residents to help curb the spread of West Nile virus.
The mosquito dunks will be available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 3112 Canton Street, Suite 100 and at 7901 Goforth Road.
To receive the free package of dunks, residents must show either a driver's license or utility bill with a city address and must agree to only apply the dunks on their property.
Dunks will be available while supplies last.
Officials with the city health department remind everyone that the best way to avoid exposure to West Nile virus is to avoid mosquito bites by employing the 4 Ds.
- Defend yourself by using insect repellents — Follow label instructions
- Dress in long sleeves and pants, loose and light colored clothing when you go outside
- Dusk and dawn, stay indoors during this time to avoid mosquitoes when they are most active
- Drain standing water and install or repair window screens.
People are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites by reducing outdoor activity during early morning and nighttime hours. North Texans who are outside during these times should cover their arms and legs and use a mosquito repellent.
To further prevent bites, people should clear standing water to prevent mosquito breeding sites where mosquitoes can grow from an egg to an adult in as little as seven days.
Stagnant water can collect in ponds, pet dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys and clogged rain gutters and French drains.
To report standing water or mosquito problems in Dallas, residents should call 311.
