Treatment Scheduling and Frequency

• What is the schedule for nighttime treatments?
  We do not operate on a set schedule. We make daily treatment decisions based on the number of mosquitoes found in traps and/or landing rate counts reported by our inspectors.
• How often do you treat in our area?
  Treatment frequency depends on mosquito species and population data. We use over 70 traps throughout the county, checked daily or weekly, to monitor areas that may need immediate attention.
• Can I request to have the truck treat my area?
  We do not dispatch trucks based on individual requests. The state of Florida requires us to have mosquito population data to justify treatment efforts.

Monitoring and Notification

• How can I find out if you are spraying my area?
  Visit our website and click on the "Daily Service Map" link on the home page. Blue-shaded areas indicate where we are currently treating.
• Why are you sending an inspector to my house when the entire neighborhood is affected?
  With over 45 mosquito species in Pasco County, our inspectors need to identify the species at your location to create a targeted management plan. This may include collecting samples to understand the mosquito habitat.

Aerial and Ground Treatments

• I just saw an orange and charcoal helicopter flying low; is that you?
  Yes, if it’s orange and charcoal, it’s likely PCMCD. Our pilots fly low and may perform steep Ag Turns to ensure accurate treatment in the designated area.
• I was sprayed by a nighttime Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) truck. What chemical was used?
  Treatments are situation-specific. Contact our office to find out which product was used in your area.
• Your ULV truck was speeding down my road; does that affect treatment quality?
  Our trucks are equipped with GPS and an accurate flow spray system. We track speed, location, and treatment status daily to ensure proper application.
• Why did your ULV truck skip spraying in front of my house?
  Spray technicians typically suspend treatment if people are observed outside in the path of treatment. To allow full coverage, please stay indoors during spraying.
• How do I know that your ULV truck was treating?
  Look for a yellow flashing light on the truck's roof; it indicates that we are actively treating.

Mosquito Biology and Behavior

• How long do mosquitoes live?
  Female mosquitoes generally live 2-3 weeks, while males live for about a week or less. Only females need blood for egg-laying.
• How far can mosquitoes fly?
  Some species, like Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, have limited flight ranges of under 1,000 feet. Most species travel 1-3 miles, while saltmarsh mosquitoes can fly over 10 miles for a blood meal.

Safety and Community Concerns

• I have honey bees; can I request to be a “no-spray” area?
  PCMCD collaborates with registered Pasco County beekeepers. Please contact our office to discuss options.
• My neighbor has a stagnant pool. What can be done about it?
  Stagnant pools are potential breeding sites. With the owner’s permission, we can inspect and treat for mosquitoes. To report a stagnant pool, call Pasco County Code Enforcement at (727) 847-8171

Health and Safety Precautions

• How soon after the ULV truck passes is it safe to go outside?
  The US EPA has evaluated our pesticides and determined no risk to birds or mammals when used as directed. Active ingredients break down quickly without leaving toxic residue. Staying indoors during treatment reduces exposure, but no special precautions are needed once the pesticide has cleared.