Fire Island To Start Ground Spray Mosquito Treatments

FIRE ISLAND, NY — The Suffolk County Department of Public Works is planning to treat sections of Fire Island this week, as part of its ongoing annual effort to control mosquito populations.

The department announced that beginning Tuesday evening, the following communities will receive vector control:

Tuesday, July 19

• Time of treatment: 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Approximate location(s): Davis Park and Point O’Woods on Fire Island
• Sites to be treated: – All streets and boardwalks in the communities.
• Method of Treatment: Ground spraying - Ultra Low Volume Aerosol
• Name of Pesticide: Anvil (sumithrin)

Wednesday July 20

• Time of treatment: 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Approximate location(s): Ocean Bay Park, Ocean Beach and Seaview on Fire Island
• Sites to be treated: – All streets and boardwalks in the communities.
• Method of Treatment: Ground spraying - Ultra Low Volume Aerosol
• Name of Pesticide: Anvil (sumithrin)

Thursday July 21

• Time of treatment: 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Approximate location(s): Fire Island Pines, Water Island, Summer Club and Atlantique on Fire Island
• Sites to be treated: – All streets and boardwalks in the communities.
• Method of Treatment: Ground spraying - Ultra Low Volume Aerosol
• Name of Pesticide: Anvil (sumithrin)

The chances of experiencing any health effects from spraying are quite low, the department said.

However, residents are encourage to take precautions to reduce possible exposure to pesticides before, during or after spraying.

If possible, remain inside or avoid the area whenever spraying takes place and for about 30 minutes after spraying. Close windows and doors and close the vents of window air-conditioning units to circulate indoor air or, before spraying begins, turn them off.

Windows and air-conditioning vents can be reopened about 30 minutes after spraying, the department said. If you come in direct contact with pesticide spray, protect your eyes.

Children and pregnant women should especially take care to avoid exposure.

If you get pesticide spray in your eyes, immediately rinse them with water. Wash exposed skin and clothes that come in direct contact with spray separately from other laundry. Residents should consult their health care providers if they think they are experiencing health effects from spraying.

The materials used by Vector Control do not leave significant residues on surfaces, the department said, but exposure can be reduced even further.

If you have homegrown fruits and vegetables, make sure to pick them before spraying takes place. Rinse homegrown fruits and vegetables (in fact all produce) thoroughly with water before cooking or eating.

Bring laundry and small toys inside before spraying begins, and wash with detergent and water if exposed to pesticides during spraying.

Residents should also bring pet food and water dishes inside, and cover ornamental fishponds during the spray period to avoid direct exposure, the department said.

For current and future notices and/or further information, residents can call the Suffolk County Division of Vector Control at 631-852-4270, the Spraying Information hot line at 631-852-4939, or click here for spray notices.