Summer is here again, bringing warm days, the opportunity to play and relax in the great outdoors, and, unfortunately, the arrival of pesky little guests: mosquitoes!

The Township of Langley is actively taking measures to help keep the insect population under control and help prevent the West Nile virus from making its way into our municipality.

“With the expected arrival of West Nile Virus in our region, we want to continue to be diligent in our efforts to limit that risk,” said Justin St.Andrassy, Environmental Coordinator for the Township of Langley. “One risk-reduction-initiative is to help our residents eliminate mosquito breeding habitats from around their homes and properties.”

To limit the presence of West Nile virus vector (potential carrier) mosquitoes, the Township and Morrow Bioscience will hold the 3rd Annual Tire Collection Event. Tires and other containers that are left out side and collect water could harbour mosquitoes, and removing the items will help to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus-carrying insects.

The free tire collection event will run Sunday, July 19, 10am – 3pm, at the old Township Hall parking lot in Murrayville, at 4914 – 221 Street, next to the W.C. Blair Recreation Centre. Residents are encouraged to collect any passenger or light truck tires that may be in their yards and bring them in. Rimmed and rimless tires will be accepted, and collected tires will be sent to a scrap tire processor where they will be recycled.

While there is no limit to the number of tires that can be brought in, the event is only open to those who live in the Township of Langley. Proof of residency will be required.

For more information, call the Township’s Engineering Division at 604-532-7300.

Remember the four Ds for reducing the effect of mosquitoes this summer:

1. DRAIN your property of standing water

2. DUSK/DAWN - take extra care at these times

3. DRESS appropriately - wear light-coloured, loose fitting clothing with long sleeves

4. DEFEND against mosquito bites by using mosquito repellents wisely