Public health officials are warning that unmaintained swimming pools, especially in fire-affected zones like Eaton and Palisades, could soon become dangerous breeding grounds for mosquitoes. A single neglected pool can produce up to 3 million mosquitoes per month, increasing the risk of West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.

Aerial surveillance in the Eaton Fire burn zone alone identified more than 1,300 stagnant pools — and officials estimate more than 2,700 potential breeding sites in surrounding neighborhoods. These mosquitoes, especially of the Culex variety, are capable of traveling up to one mile from their breeding site.

To stop mosquito outbreaks before they spread, local vector control districts are offering free mosquito control treatments for pools in affected areas. These services may include temporary larvicides, mosquitofish, or other interventions, and do not require a right-of-entry form.

What to Do If You’re in a Fire Zone:

• Eaton Fire area:
  • Text “Eaton Enroll” to (626) 314-6006
  • Email: SwimmingPool@SGVmosquito.org
  • Or call: (626) 314-6006
• Palisades Fire area:
  • Call (310) 915-7370 or file a request at the West Vector Control District website

🏡 Not in a Fire Zone? Standing Water Still Poses a Risk

Even if you live outside the burn areas, any standing water on your property — such as birdbaths, buckets, plant saucers, clogged gutters, unused fountains, or tarps — can support mosquito breeding.

Here’s what to do:

• Dump or drain standing water weekly
• Scrub containers to remove mosquito eggs
• Keep swimming pools clean, chlorinated, and circulating
• Report green pools or mosquito problems to your local vector control district

To find your district and request help:
🔗 https://www.mvcac.org/about/member-agencies/