DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — The Macon County Mosquito Abatement District held its annual tire drive Friday. 

The drive received more than 800 tires this year in an effort to cut down potential mosquito breeding grounds. Mosquitoes tend to prefer warmer and darker locations with stagnant water, making old tires ideal.

While some community members only come to discard tires for free, the director of the district said they’re doing a public service even if they don’t realize it. 

“When we’re talking about public health, we’re talking about an initiative that involves everyone,” said director Jason Probus. “If you can, check out your backyard after a rain.” 

Probus invites anyone in his district to call his office if they spot any wells of stagnant water. His district can test for the presence of mosquitoes and exterminate them if needed.