Suffolk to spray for mosquitoes Tuesday night

Suffolk County plans to spray pesticides to control adult mosquitoes Tuesday night on Fire Island and in Holtsville, South Huntington, Nesconset and Ronkonkoma, health officials said.

Weather permitting, pesticide spraying also will be done Wednesday night in Heckscher State Park and surrounding areas in East Islip and Great River, and on Thursday morning in the Smith Point Park Recreation area, officials said.

The health department said that "health effects from spraying are quite low," but advised that common-sense steps should be taken to avoid exposure. Children and pregnant women, the release said, should "remain inside or avoid the area whenever spraying takes place and for about 30 minutes after spraying."

To keep the pesticide from getting indoors, officials said, "Close windows and doors and close the vents of window air-conditioning units . . . before spraying begins. Windows and air-conditioning vents can be reopened about 30 minutes after spraying."

Outdoors, pick homegrown fruits and vegetables, if possible, before spraying. Bring laundry and all small toys indoors. If items are exposed to the pesticide, wash with soap and water.

Also, officials said, pet food and water dishes should be brought inside, and ornamental fish ponds should be covered during the spray period.

For more information call 631-852-4939, or go to suffolkcountyny.gov/health.