Palm Springs, CA (Grassroots Newswire) September 4, 2008 - The high rate of foreclosures in California means there are many vacant homes - and so many of those homes have abandoned swimming pools that officials have become breeding grounds for mosquitoes that spread the West Nile Virus (WNV).

American Leak Detection, a nationwide franchise that finds and locates water and other leaks non-invasively, offers tips on avoiding the contraction of WNV. First, they recommend that outdoor activities should be avoided between dusk and dawn; the time when mosquitoes are most active. If you must be outdoors during these times, then long-sleeve shirts and pants are recommended as are approved insect repellents.

Second, door and window screens should be used to prevent mosquito home entry.

Third, sources of standing water should be eliminated, including: birdbaths, old tires, buckets, clogged gutters and puddles. Standing water from hidden home and pool leaks should be avoided as well. By fixing leaky faucets, irrigation valves, sprinklers, and other plumbing problems, homeowners will reduce the threat of WNV plus save money on their water bills. American Leak Detection can help locate the origin of water leaks around your house to alleviate even the smallest puddle from forming. For helpful tools on avoiding property leaks, visit americanleakdetection.com.

As for those abandoned pools and standing water, American Leak Detection recommends that when mosquito breeding sources are located, it is best if a service request is made to the applicable County Vector Control District. The Vector Control Districts can treat the pool for mosquito breeding and reduce WNV transmission.

About the West Nile Virus

WNV is transmitted to humans and animals through a mosquito bite. A mosquito becomes infected when it feeds on infected birds. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the risk of serious illness to humans is low. Most infected individuals will not experience any illness. However, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems are at greatest risk for serious illness. There is no vaccine for WNV, so taking precautions to avoid mosquito bites is imperative. Using insect repellent with DEET, wearing long tops and long pants, shoes with socks, and removing any standing water will greatly reduce your changes of getting bitten. To view the latest WNV activity in the US, visit the CDC website.

About American Leak Detection

Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Palm Springs, ALD is dedicated to resource protection and eco-friendly services. ALD is the world leader in the accurate, non-destructive detection of all types of leaks including hidden water and sewer leaks. From swimming pool cracks to concealed plumbing systems, the smallest leak is located with the most advanced, sophisticated electronic devices - without bashing holes in walls or digging up the deck and yard. For the last seven years, American Leak Detection has been ranked #1 in Entrepreneur® magazine�s �Maintenance Products and Services� franchise sector. In February 2008, The Wall Street Journal ranked American Leak Detection as one of the top 25 High Franchise Performers. For more information on American Leak Detection, call 800.755.6697 or visit www.americanleakdetection.com.