A lightweight mineral oil used in the water at other times causes little harm and dissipates rapidly. The latter products have been chosen because they offer specific biological control of mosquito larvae. The chemical control of adult mosquitoes worldwide has contributed significantly to improved human health and comfort, resulted in economic benefits and is considered an integral part of a successful management program. In emergency conditions, the application of chemicals offers immediate control and is quite effective in averting or stopping epidemics. Even though greater emphasis is placed upon biological and physical control measures, a program that uses some adulticiding can be more effective overall.
Technicians always apply pesticides in a manner that minimizes damage to non-target organisms.
Pesticides are used only to treat specific sites where mosquitoes are being produced that will cause annoyance or create a public health problem. The Mosquito Control Program calls for pesticides to be applied in a safe manner that minimizes hazard to the applicators and citizens. Staff stays current on federal and state laws regarding the use of pesticides and follows the regulations and specific instructions on the labels. The City of Irving's Mosquito Control Program can be considered among the best in the state due to the excellent surveillance being conducted. Most cities use surveillance techniques after a disease outbreak.