Free tire collection event at Okanagan College in Kelowna

Photo: Regional District of Central Okanagan

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is teaming up with Duka Environmental Services Ltd. and Tire Stewardship BC to host a tire collection event.

The regional district says tires outdoors are a popular habitat for mosquito larvae to hatch and grow.

“It only takes a few centimetres of water inside old tires on your property to provide the perfect habitat for mosquito larvae,” says Curtis Fediuk, president of Duka Environmental Services Ltd.

Residents are invited to drop off any old or unused tires on Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kelowna’s Okanagan College Campus.

“By dropping off any unwanted tires, you’ll reduce potential opportunities for mosquitoes to hatch.”

Other ways residents can reduce mosquito development:

• Remove any standing water sources and items that collect water such as old tires, plant pots or garbage cans
• Cover rain barrels with a screen so that mosquitoes can’t lay their eggs in the water
• Change the water in birdbaths, wading pools and pet bowls at least twice a week
• Remove any water that sits in unused swimming pools or on covers
• Aerate water in ponds to keep it moving or add fish to feed on mosquito larvae

There is no limit to the number of tires individuals can drop off. But it is recommended businesses that sell or generate tires call 1-866-497-0281 to arrange a pickup.