Suffolk To Spray For Mosquitoes By Air Across Some South Shore Marshes In Brookhaven Town

MASTIC-SHIRLEY, NY — The Suffolk County Department of Public Works plans to treat parts of Brookhaven Town's marshes, as part of its ongoing annual efforts to control adult mosquitoes, officials said Monday.

The communities will be sprayed by helicopter with VectoPrime FG [Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) and Altosid (Methoprene). The spraying will run from Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The communities will include: Grove, Pine Neck, and Roe avenues, Hedges Creek, Lyman Marsh, Bellport Bay, and Smith Point. Areas that are pending include Abets and Beaverdam creeks, Fireplace Neck, and Mastic Beach.

For more information:

• Suffolk County Division of Vector Control 631-852-4270
• Spraying Information Hotline 631-852-4939
• For Spray Notices visit:https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Newssuffolkcountyny.gov/News
• If you are not sure whether your landline phone is included in the SuffolkAlert system or to receive notifications via cell phone, text messaging, or e-mail, contact:
• suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/FRES/Office-of-Emergency-Management/suffolkalert-notifications

Although the chances of experiencing any health effects from spraying are low, the following steps will help reduce possible exposure to pesticides before, during, or after spraying:

• Children and pregnant women should avoid exposure when practical. If possible, remain inside, or avoid the area when spraying takes place, and for about 30 minutes after.
• Close windows and doors and close fresh air intake vents of window air-conditioning units to circulate indoor air or, before spraying begins, turn them off. Windows and air-conditioning vents can be reopened about 30 minutes after spraying.
• If you come in direct contact with pesticide spray, protect your eyes. If you get pesticide spray in your eyes, immediately rinse them with water. Wash exposed skin.
• Wash clothes that come in contact with spray separately from other laundry.
• Consult your health care provider if you think you are experiencing health effects from spraying.
• Materials used by Vector Control do not leave significant residues on surfaces, but exposure can be reduced even further. Pick homegrown fruits and vegetables you expect to eat soon before spraying takes place. Rinse homegrown produce thoroughly with water before cooking or eating.
• Bring laundry and toys inside before spraying begins. (Wash with detergent and water if exposed to pesticides during spraying).
• Bring pet food inside and cover ornamental fishponds during the spray period to avoid direct exposure.