The Grand River Mosquito Control District has asked residents to join in efforts to fight the bite this summer.

The district treats more than 2,500 private properties as well as public open spaces in the Grand Valley.

Tim Moore, manager of the Grand River Mosquito Control District, said it’s important for people to remember the three Ds — drain, dress and defend.

Mosquitoes require water to breed, and problems can be avoided by checking and draining sources of water — disposing of old tires, clearing roof gutters of debris and repairing leaking outdoor faucets. Water in pet dishes and bird baths should be changed frequently.

“Encouraging your neighbors to also eliminate sources on their property is critical to a community-wide control program,” Moore said.

People who are outside when mosquitoes are active should wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, Moore said. It’s important as well to apply a mosquito repellent to clothing and bare skin.

For more information, visit www.fightthebitegj.com.