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Abandoned Pinal pools raise fears of West Nile
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Houses that have been foreclosed in Pinal County are gaining the watchful eye of environmental health experts in Pinal County looking to stop the spread of the West Nile virus.
The reason: abandoned swimming pools.
Foreclosed properties with swimming pools turning green in a backyard are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
"These pools have become a bigger problem than ever in our efforts to control mosquitoes," said Tami Schuler, an environmental health specialist.
As of late May, the number of problem pools in the county had surpassed all the complaints in 2007. The department has logged 117 complaints so far in 2008 compared to 115 in 2007.
Chemicals can stop the growth of mosquito larvae. However, Schuler said that owners should drain a pool to reduce health hazards and the risk of children drowning in them.
So far, Pinal County has shown no signs of the West Nile virus. Environmental health officials have asked that residents report problem pools at (866) 287-0209, Ext.6200 or (520) 866-6200.
Tips on keeping properties mosquito-free:
Drain all standing water where mosquitoes can breed, including buckets, tires, cans, jars and other containers.
Change the water in birdbaths, outdoor flowerpots and pet watering bowls at least twice a week.
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