5 Tips to Keep Mosquitoes at Bay This Summer

5 Tips to Keep Mosquitoes at Bay This Summer

Mosquito season is upon us. These nuisance insects breed very quickly in even the smallest amounts of stagnant water. To reduce your chances of contracting this or other insect-borne diseases, use insect repellent, avoid going outside at dusk, and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Taking the proper precautions against mosquito bites is imperative. West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States, spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito, according to the CDC.
One in five people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. One in 150 can develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. Here are some tips to keep mosquitoes from biting you this summer.

1. Remove Standing Water

Mosquitoes reproduce in stagnant water. Be sure to empty outdoor water toys and barrels, remove wheelbarrows and other outdoor gear, keep gutters and drain lines clear of debris and get rid of any old bird baths. Even something as small as an upturned bottle cap can be a breeding ground for these insects. Keep in mind, eggs laid in water grow into nymphs in just four days. Remove standing water as soon as possible.

2. Use Screens

You can still get fresh air indoors, yet keep away mosquitoes and other bugs at the same time by utilizing the screens your windows and doors came with. Fine mesh screens have holes big enough to allow for cross-breezes but small enough to deter mosquitoes. Inspect existing screens for seals around the edges. If you notice any gaps or holes, use a patching kit or replace the whole screen.

3. Use Fans, Even Outdoors

Porch fans in mosquito-rich areas are a smart idea because they make it more difficult for mosquitoes to fly against the breeze. Plus, they disperse carbon dioxide emitted by humans into the air. This is vital because mosquitoes detect it in exhaled air, guiding them your way at feeding time.

4. Cover Up and Use Repellent

During summer, always wear insect repellant, and wear long sleeves and pants (especially at dusk and at night).

5. Keep Your Yard Trimmed

Using a lawn mower, trimmer and even chain saw, keep high grass, tree limbs and brush from invading your property. Keep your lawn neatly manicured. Remember, mosquitoes like cool spots in the shade, so do what you can to minimize any tall grass or limbs that can cast shadows on the yard.

Contact Cavanaugh’s Professional Termite and Pest Services

If you’ve tried all these tips but they’re just not working, it’s time to contact a professional pest control company like Cavanaugh’s. Contact us at one of our three NJ locations:

• Flanders: 973-584-2552
• Somerville: 908-730-6565
• Freehold: 800-362-2282

Pest Control Freehold NJ