Dear Residents and Interested Parties
Please note that Mosquitos do have the ability to transmit disease. Cape Town is clear of many of the major diseases, but due to climate change and evolution when there is an excess of one species, disease can occur. Let’s not be caught out by the poor management of the drought, but rather be pro-active citizens and manage the problem ourselves before there is another disaster.
Due to the drought many residents have purchased rain-water tanks and have not maintained ponds and swimming pools. These pools of stagnant water has led to a massive mosquito bloom, which most of us are experiencing. Mosquitos can breed in as little of 3cm of water!!!!
Proactive Prevention:
- Water Tanks: Seal the lid with gaffer tape and plastic. Use a ball of netting in both the inlet and overflow. If using screen make sure they are removable. I found balling up netting and putting in the pipe works best.
- Gutters: Please make sure there is no standing water in your gutters and they are cleaned of all debris. (Fire prevention maintenance)
- Pools and Ponds must be drained of all water. Make an effort to remove all stagnant water from pools and ponds. If required get a pool technician to empty your pool.
- Bird Baths: Change all the water regularly.
Chemical Solutions:
- Do not add any chemicals to water tanks used for drinking water. The best natural way to kill the larvae is to starve them of oxygen or prevention as above.
- Oil: Olive oil and vegetable creates as skin on top of the water starving the larvae of oxygen. I don’t use this method due having to clean the water tanks. Use 1 cup/250ml
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Non-toxic, great method to kill larvae and can be used as a repellent (you should have this product at home anyway) 15% to 85% water. A weak solution won’t kill larvae.
- Soap: Untested method – a couple of teaspoons of dishwashing liquid.
- Kerosene: 1 teaspoon of medicinal paraffin or domestic kerosene (not commercial or industrial kerosene). This breaks the surface tension of the water.
- No Bleach: Don’t use
We request that that no harmful chemicals are used as the environment is already statured with chemicals. Be natural and kind to yourselves and the world around you.
Maintenance:
- Inspect the tanks for cracks, leaks and openings. Check for any leaks and areas where water can pool. Remember the larvae only need 3cm of water.
Please pass this notice onto neighbours who have tanks, share to as many social media groups and civic organisations. Please share your tips and tricks in comments below or email me – kevin.muizresidents@gmail.com
Kind regards
Kevin Rack
Muizenberg Lakeside Ratepayers Association (MLRA): Environmental Portfolio
Muizenberg Improvement District Volunteer: Environment