Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – The spring and summer mosquito control season is now active in Myrtle Beach, with city crews making regular weekday rounds through neighborhoods to help keep the mosquito population under control.
The annual spraying routes are carried out by the City of Myrtle Beach during the work week, weather-permitting. Crews focus on residential rights-of-way and begin spraying late in the evening, when conditions allow.
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The effort is part of the city’s seasonal routine to reduce mosquitoes across different areas of the community during the warmer months, when standing water and humid weather can create ideal breeding conditions.
The city follows a set weekly schedule for spraying.
On Mondays, crews cover the area from 62nd Avenue North to the northern city limits, except for the Del Webb community.
On Tuesdays, spraying takes place from 21st Avenue North to 62nd Avenue North and includes the Del Webb community.
Wednesdays are reserved for the area from Third Avenue South and Highway 501 to 21st Avenue North.
On Thursdays, crews move through 17th Avenue South to Third Avenue South, including the Highway 15 corridor.
Fridays are set aside for 17th Avenue South to the southern city limits.
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While the spraying program is meant to help protect residents and visitors from mosquitoes, city officials also are asking for help from the community. Beekeepers are encouraged to register their beehives by calling 843-918-2000. Once hives are registered, crews avoid spraying in those locations.
Residents can also play a major role around their own homes. The city is urging people to take a few minutes each week to remove standing water, which is where mosquitoes often breed.
That includes tipping or throwing away water-collecting items such as cans, buckets, pots, toys and similar containers. Old tires should be properly disposed of, and clogged roof gutters or yard drains should be cleaned.
Pools, boats and covers should be drained when water collects in them. Recycling containers can be drilled at the bottom so water does not sit inside. Birdbaths and animal water bowls or troughs should be changed weekly. Even small puddles around a yard can become a problem if left alone.
The city also recommends simple steps to avoid mosquito bites. Residents should repair screens on windows and doors, wear light-colored long-sleeved clothing when possible and use EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or Picaridin. People are also advised to avoid scented products, which can attract mosquitoes.
Pet owners are encouraged to keep animals protected through vaccinations and heartworm prevention.
For more information, residents may contact the City of Myrtle Beach Public Works at 843-918-2000.
