Mosquito Control

The Village of Riverside works with the Cook County Department of Public Health and the Des Plaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District to monitor mosquito populations.
A mosquito biting someone.

Tips for Keeping Mosquitoes Under Control

  • Get rid of old tires, tin cans, buckets, bottles, or any water holding containers.
  • Fill in or drain low places in the yard.
  • Keep drains, ditches, and culverts free of weeds and trash so water will drain properly.
  • Keep roof gutters free of leaves and other debris.
  • Cover trash containers to keep out rainwater. Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets.
  • Empty plastic wading pools at least once a week and store indoors when not in use.
  • Unused swimming pools should be drained and kept dry during the mosquito season.
  • Fill in tree rot holes and hollow stumps that hold water.
  • Change the water in birdbaths and plant pots or drip trays at least once each week.
  • Keep grass cut short and shrubbery well trimmed. Make sure ornamental ponds have fish that eat mosquito larvae. Repair window screens.
  • When outdoors, use personal protection to prevent bites (insect repellent and appropriate clothing).
  • Use repellents containing 25-35 percent DEET. Always follow label directions.
  • Talk to your doctor before applying repellent to infants or children.
  • Protect babies and small children by using mosquito netting over strollers.