I am the Town Councilman for Councilmanic District six, which includes Bethpage, East Meadow, Levittown, Merrick (partial), North Bellmore (partial), North Merrick (partial), Plainedge and Salisbury.

I am writing to you today in regard to a serious matter, West Nile Virus. The Town of Hempstead, along with other municipal governmental agencies, local health departments, colleges and environmental groups, are continually sharing information in the hope that we will be able to ward off mosquito problems.

I would like to help everyone become aware of the severity of this problem and how we can help limit the risk. The common house mosquito lives and breeds in our own backyards wherever water can accumulate and stand for more than four days. Old tires, tin cans, rain gutters, pool covers, children's toys, plant pots, boats and shrubbery provide a home for adult mosquitoes to rest. The key to controlling mosquitoes is to remove the standing water in which they breed before they become flying, biting adults.

It is important that everyone do whatever it takes to reduce the mosquito population around homes and properties by reducing and eliminating all stagnant water especially after a rainfall. Below are some helpful tips:

* Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water holding containers.

* Remove all discarded tires.

* Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers that are kept outdoors.

* Make sure roof gutters drain properly and are kept clear of debris.

* Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.

* Clean vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds.

* Remove debris from storm drains

* Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs.

* Drain water from pool covers.

* Use landscaping to eliminate low areas where stagnant water can collect.

It is a good idea to ensure that all windows and doors have screens and that they are in good repair.

If you would like to receive more information on mosquito control, please call 571-8707.

-Gary Hudes

Town of Hempstead Councilman