The dry conditions this summer have browned lawns but have done little to dispel mosquitoes, so if the weather cooperates, the company that provides mosquito abatement for the city will conduct a citywide spray Wednesday evening, city officials announced Tuesday.

The spray treatment by Clarke will help control nuisance mosquitoes and curb potential transmission of mosquito-borne disease such as West Nile virus. The spraying is part of a program mosquito-control program that includes surveillance and monitoring, as well as control of mature and larval mosquitoes.

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According to the city, residents can help curb mosquito activity as well, simply by eliminating items that can hold standing water, filling in or draining any low places in the yard. Keep trash containers covered to keep out rainwater, and repair leaky pipes and outside faucets. Plastic wading pools should be emptied once weekly and stored indoors when not in use. Also, make sure your backyard pool is properly cared for while on vacation.

Other steps the city advises include changing the water in birdbaths and planters frequently and keeping grass cut short and shrubbery well-trimmed around the house.

The Illinois Department of Public Health encourages residents to avoid being bitten by using insect repellent, avoiding being outdoors during dawn and dusk hours when mosquitoes are most active, and by wearing long sleeves.

Residents may call Clarke directly at 1-800-942-2555 about the spraying schedule, mosquito annoyances, treatments, standing water, dead birds and related concerns. Information is also available on Clarke's website at www.clarke.com or the city's website at www.stcharlesil.gov.

For additional questions, residents can contact the Public Works office at 1-630-377-4405.