Mosquito Control
Due to the presence of mosquitoes around town the Shire is undertaking a regular fogging program (weather permitting) - confirmed dates can be requested from the Shire Offices at (09) 9949 3000 or info@exmouth.wa.gov.au.
When the weather conditions permit a vehicle-mounted fogger will be moving through all areas except for the following:
- Preston Street, Heron Way and Catalina Close
- Light Industrial Area & Wilderness Estate
- Town Centre – Thew Street, Learmonth Street to Fyfe Street.
- Marina Area from Madaffari Drive to Cobia Close including Neale Cove.
- Any residence who wishes to have the fogger turned off when passing by.
What can you do?
- Request the fogging equipment to be turned off when going past your residence. This can be due to respiratory sensitivities, beekeeping or other concerns.
If you would like the fogger to be turned off please send your name, street address and contact phone number to cwebster@exmouth.wa.gov.au or ring 9949 3000, 0429 881 918 or BEFORE the fogging commences.
- Householders with caged birds or fish ponds may wish to cover their cages and ponds to prevent exposure of their animals.
- Where possible keep animals in an enclosed area or towards the rear of the property.
- Close windows and turn off air conditioners while the drift is present.
- Avoid contact with the drift and don’t let children approach the vehicle.
- Check your backyard for mosquito breeding, and don’t forget your septic and water tanks.
- Avoid being outside during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are at their most active.
If you have any questions please go to our FAQ section on our website or contact Health Services on 9949 3000.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chemical is being applied?
We will be using Garrards Pyretherin Drift or PY INSECTICIDE FOG, if you would like more information on the product please contact the Shire of Exmouth's Health Services or see the following links:
Gerrards Pyrethrin Drift Insecticide SDS and label.
PY INSECTICIDE FOG SDS and label.
How is the chemical applied?
A licensed pest control operator will be driving a vehicle mounted fogger slowly down each of the streets listed.
Is the product safe?
Pyrethrins are very toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms. However, they have little residual activity and break down rapidly upon exposure to sunlight. All chemicals carry a risk with them, but when used correctly and to label requirements, this risk is reduced. If you don't want the vehicle to fog outside your property, please contact the Shire of Exmouth Health Services 9949 3000 or info@exmouth.wa.gov.au.
As a precaution where possible keep animals in an enclosed area or towards the rear of the property, but they shouldn't experience any concerns if they come into contact with the drift. Cover any fish ponds with a tarp or something similar while the fogging is occurring.
Can I eat fruit/ vegetables from my trees or garden after the fogging?
The chemical used is a non residual chemical, but if you do collect fruit or vegetables from your garden the night of the treatment wash them prior to eating them as a precaution.
Do I need to close windows or turn off the air conditioner?
It is advisable to close windows and turn off the airconditioner while the drift is present.
What is the current status of mosquito borne virus?
There has been no notifications received by the Shire for Ross River virus or Barmah Forest virus. There also has been no detection of Murray Valley Encephalitis or Kunjin virus.
How can I stop mosquito from breeding in my backyard?
Check to make sure you don't have anything in your backyard that can hold water such as tyres or old drums. Make sure your septic tanks are completely sealed and the mosquito proof cowl on your vents is in good condition.
Do mosquitoes breed in grass?
No, mosquitoes need a permanent water body for at least 3 days to complete breeding cycles.
If you have any further questions please contact the Shire of Exmouth Health Services on 9949 3000, 0429 881 918 or cwebster@exmouth.wa.gov.au .