FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): With spring in full swing, the Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health has kicked off its annual mosquito control program. The program involves treating and eliminating potential breeding sites and placing traps to collect and test mosquitoes for disease.

Residents can do their part to control mosquito breeding by emptying flower pots and other containers, replacing water in birdbaths, cleaning out clogged gutters and eliminating other sources of standing water on their property.

Another way to prevent mosquitoes from breeding is by cleaning out swimming pools or putting a tight cover on them.  Residents should also check the lids of trash and recycling containers, to  ensure they're tight-fitting.

The Department of Health also recommends residents wear pants and long-sleeve shirts and use insect repellent on clothes and exposed skin when spending time outside.

Mosquitofish will be available to the public for placement in ornamental ponds and water gardens beginning in early June.