Enjoying the warmer weather? So are mosquitoes. These prevalent pests have already made their presence known. As the summer heats up, the situation is only bound to get itchier, unless you take some of these mosquito prevention methods into consideration.

The Problem is Bigger than a Bite

Mosquitoes may be annoying with their buzzing and biting that leave itchy welts all over your body. But they can do more harm than that. Mosquitoes are known to carry various diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, Zika, and West Nile virus. So while it’s important to protect yourself from itching all summer, it’s also crucial to reduce their presence for the sake of public health.

Luckily there are ways to prevent mosquitoes from venturing into your yard. There are also control methods if they end up coming over anyway. And there are added precautions you can take before traveling to a place where disease-carrying pests run rampant.

Mosquito Prevention Methods

The first line of pest defense is prevention. Here are some ways to keep mosquitoes out of the area.

Eliminate standing water.

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water. You can make sure they don’t turn your yard into a breeding ground by clearing any collected water from areas such as:

• Flower pots and saucers. If there are no plants to suck up the water, put the pot away. If the plant isn’t sucking up all the water, you may be watering too much.
• Bird baths. You don’t have to get rid of it, but you should change the water weekly.
• Gutters and downspouts. Clear out debris so there’s no buildup.
• Old tires. First, consider why it’s in your yard. If it’s a fun swing, make sure water isn’t trapped inside, or whoever swings may come away with more bites.
• Toys. Clean up your yard of any outdoor trucks, buckets, and other accessories and make sure play areas are clear of puddles. If you have a baby pool, make sure to clean it out regularly so your child doesn’t get bit while playing.
• Tarps and pool covers. Shake out any trapped water in tarps and, it’s summer, uncover that pool!

Maintain your yard.

Like most pests, mosquitoes are drawn to areas where they can find food and shelter. Don’t let this be your yard. When maintained properly, there’s less chance of water pooling in low-lying areas and tall grass or bushes providing places to rest. Here are some lawn tips to focus on:

• Mow regularly
• Trim shrubs and bushes
• Remove leaves and other debris
• Aerate to help ensuring proper water drainage

Plant mosquito repellent.

Another way to help naturally protect your yard is to add plants that naturally repel mosquitoes. Incorporate these into your garden:

• Citronella
• Lemongrass
• Lavender
• Marigolds
• Basil
• Peppermint

Once you have your yard situated, you can venture outside and enjoy the great outdoors this season. However, if you still find yourself getting bit or plan on traveling somewhere else, it’s time for more personal protective measures.

Protecting Yourself from Mosquitoes

These pesky pests can find you, even with a well maintained yard and repellant plants. Try these methods to help safeguard your house and family.

Install window and door screens.

Keep mosquitoes out of your indoor space by making sure all windows and doors are fitted with proper screens.

• Screen in vents and seal up any cracks or openings to the outside.
• Regularly check for screen tears and repair when necessary.
• If mosquitoes find their way inside, use nets over your bed to protect yourself while sleeping.

Wear mosquito repellents.

Apply a specialized spray or lotion to help provide personal protection. It’s important to follow label instructions for safe and effective use. Look for products containing:

• DEET
• Picaridin
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus

Use mosquito traps and zappers.

• What’s summer without the gentle zap of a nearby mosquito trap?
• Electronic devices can be effective in capturing mosquitoes in your vicinity.
• But keep in mind these devices actually attract mosquitoes using light, heat, or CO2 to then trap or kill them.

Wear protective clothing.

• Spending time outdoors?
• Remember mosquitoes are more active during dawn and dusk.
• Heading for a hike in the woods or near water?
• Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks to minimize exposed skin.

Now that you’re personally protected and your property is properly maintained, you should not have run-ins with mosquitoes, right?

Consider Professional Pest Control

There are some areas that experience severe mosquito infestations. Even the best mosquito prevention methods don’t do everything to help protect residents or visitors. This is where professional pest control services may be necessary. A pro can apply treatments that target mosquito larvae and adult mosquitoes, providing more comprehensive control.

If outbreaks seem to be worse in your neighborhood, enlist the help of your neighbors. Share these prevention and protection tips and recommend calling a pro to help significantly reduce the threat of mosquitoes. Imagine enjoying a safer, more comfortable summer outdoors. Call Green Image Lawn Care today about our mosquito control program to help keep these pesky, potentially harmful insects at bay.