Clarke to conduct citywide spraying in St. Charles Thursday

Clarke, the mosquito control vendor for the City of St. Charles, will conduct a citywide spray Thursday evening, weather permitting.

Clarke also will be spraying in surrounding communities. The company uses a synthetic treatment that is safe for humans and pets, according to a news release from the city of St. Charles. But people with a respiratory condition are advised to stay indoors and close the windows during the application.

Also, to get a notification of an upcoming spraying, call Clarke at 1.800.942.2555. To prevent bites, use insect repellent, avoid being outdoors during dawn and dusk hours when mosquitoes are most active and wear long sleeves, the release stated.

To reduce mosquito populations in their yards, residents are advised to:

• Discard old tires, tin cans, buckets or any water-holding containers outside.

• Fill in or drain any low places in the yard.

• Cover trash containers to keep out rainwater.

• Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets.

• Empty plastic wading pools at least once each week and store indoors when not in use.

• Make sure your backyard pool is properly cared for—especially when on vacation.

• Change the water in birdbaths and planters frequently.

• Keep grass cut short and shrubbery well-trimmed around the house.

Clarke, the mosquito control vendor for the City of St. Charles, will conduct a citywide spray Thursday evening, weather permitting.