PEST PREVENTION FIELD GUIDE

Reduce mosquitoes by removing breeding opportunities

Many mosquitoes reproduce in standing water. Managing small water collections helps reduce breeding opportunities around a home.

What to do first

1. Empty or refresh stagnant water in containers, saucers, toys and birdbaths weekly.
2. Keep gutters clear, manage drainage and cover rain barrels with fitted screens.
3. Repair window screens and reduce opportunities for mosquitoes to enter the home.

What to avoid

Avoid unregistered larvicides and unproven homemade repellents. Follow any approved repellent's label directions.

When to get expert help

Ask a local public-health office about unusual activity, local mosquito-borne disease warnings or community control programmes.

Further guidance

Read Health Canada's pest-control tips and check local public-health recommendations. If a pesticide is considered in Canada, choose a product with a PCP registration number authorized for the pest and application site and follow its label precisely.

Educational information only, not a species diagnosis or professional inspection. Updated October 11, 2026.