HAMILTON COUNTY, Ind. -- Hamilton County is collecting old tires in an effort to get out ahead of the summer's mosquito boom.

Residents are encouraged to drop off old tires that are truck-sized or smaller at the Household Hazardous Waste Center at 1717 Pleasant Street near the Hamilton County Fairgrounds.

The goal is to eliminate murky, stagnant water that makes a prime breeding ground for the annoying insects, 6News' Stacia Matthews reported.

"With the mosquito problem, we're hoping to get the ones off the rims, get them out of the yard, get them out of the garage area so they won't hold water," said spokesman Jeff Rushforth.

One tire can hatch thousands of the blood thirsty parasites, putting people at risk for bites and West Nile.

So far, no cases have been reported in central Indiana, but health officials worry recent rains could increase the opportunities.

"We have not found West Nile in Hamilton County, but it is coming," said Jeanette McGavick with Hamilton County Mosquito Control. "They've already found it in Illinois, so we can expect it in Indiana as well."

All residents are urged to dump standing water in their yards.

The Household Hazardous Waste Center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. on Saturday.

More Information: West Nile Facts