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As spring settles in, Suffolk is ramping up efforts to protect residents from the seasonal surge in mosquito activity. To help combat the pests, the department is offering free mosquito dunks to city residents and continues to target treatments across the area.

Mosquito dunks — small, doughnut-shaped tablets placed in standing water to kill mosquito larvae — are available at no cost to Suffolk residents. To receive them, individuals must be at least 18 years old and provide both a valid photo ID and proof of residency. The dunks are available at all Suffolk Fire Stations, the Mosquito Control Office at 800 Carolina Road, City Hall, local recreation centers, libraries, and the Suffolk Visitors Center.

In addition to distributing dunks, Mosquito Control crews actively monitor and treat mosquito breeding areas citywide to promote public health and comfort.

Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions to minimize mosquito exposure:

• Stay indoors during peak mosquito hours—typically from one hour before dusk to one hour after dawn.

• When outdoors, wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved, light-colored clothing.

• Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone. Always follow label directions.

Mosquito Control officials also remind pet owners to be vigilant:

• Horse owners should ensure their animals are vaccinated against Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

• Dog and cat owners should take preventive measures against heartworm disease.

Residents can help reduce the mosquito population by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed:

• Empty containers such as buckets, cans, bottles, wheelbarrows, and plant trays.

• Dispose of used automobile tires — up to four per trip — for free at the SPSA Regional Landfill in Suffolk.

• Clear debris from gutters, downspouts, and black drainpipes.

• Maintain clean wading and swimming pools.

• Drain water from tarps and place mosquito dunks in stagnant water areas, such as ditches and low-lying spots.

For more information, contact the Suffolk Mosquito Control Office or visit the city’s website.