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It aims at reminding building contractors and households to take preventive measures to reduce mosquito nuisance and prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and Japanese Encephalitis.
"To prevent mosquito infestation, it is important to eliminate all stagnant water which is the potential breeding ground for mosquitoes," the spokesman said.
"Contractors should inspect their construction sites regularly to ensure that there are no abandoned containers and empty tins holding water.
"They should pump and drain stagnant water in holes, trenches and hollow spaces and fill them up with soil.
"Spray a thin layer of diesel oil on the water surface if draining of stagnant water is impossible," he said.
The spokesman advised households to cover tightly all water containers, storage tanks and wells and leave no water in flower pot trays.
"Keep all drains free from choking," he said: "It is an offence under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance to allow the accumulation of water liable to mosquito breeding. The maximum fine for the offence is $10,000."
In 1994, a total of 471 prosecutions were made.
During the campaign period, exhibition boards will be put on public display at the unit's resource centre on the eighth floor of the Urban Council Fa Yuen Street Complex in Mong Kok.
"The centre also provides preview and loan service of educational materials like tapes and video tapes.
"A variety of printed material such as posters, leaflets and stickers may also be obtained free from the centre," the spokesman added.
Meanwhile, the department will be sending advisory letters, and educational leaflets and posters to owners incorporations, mutual aid committees, management offices of large private housing estates and building contractors to enlist support.
Members of the public secking advice or help in mosquito prevention may also contact the respective District Environmental Hygiene Offices of the Urban Services or Regional Services Departments.
End/Monday, April 3, 1995