Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy cookouts, swimming, or even a good book in a lawn chair. However, mosquitoes can often put a damper on things by making it difficult to enjoy being outdoors. Below, we’ll provide tips for preventing mosquito bites and avoiding mosquito infestations in your backyard.
1. Install screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
Screens on windows and doors are key to keeping mosquitoes and other pests out of your home. If your home already has window and door screens, inspect the screens to make sure they’re free of any holes or gaps at their edges.
2. Wear mosquito repellent outdoors and don’t forget to reapply as directed!
DEET is the most effective mosquito repellent available and will help keep mosquitoes from biting you. If you’d rather not wear a mosquito repellent with DEET, the CDC also recommends repellents with Picaridin, IR3535, Para-menthane-diol (PMD), 2-undecanone, and oil of lemon eucalyptus to keep mosquitoes away.
Tip: It’s essential to check a repellent’s ingredient list before applying it to your body or someone else’s, as certain ingredients may not be safe for infants, small children, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
3. Wear breathable long sleeves and pants when you’re outside.
If you are going to be outside for an extended period of time, it is a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants when possible. This will help protect your skin from mosquito bites. You can even buy insect repellent clothing for hikes, camping trips, and vacations to tropical areas where mosquitoes may be abundant.
4. Keep your yard clean and free of stagnant water.
Mosquitoes need standing water to breed. Ensuring that your yard has good drainage can help reduce the number of mosquitoes in your backyard. Also make sure to empty any containers that may hold water, such as flower pots or birdbaths, and move your pet’s water bowl indoors.
5. Try using outdoor fans to repel mosquitoes.
Did you know that mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide? Fans help disperse the carbon dioxide you breathe out, making you less likely to attract mosquitoes. Additionally, mosquitoes are not very good at flying in windy conditions, so using outdoor fans can help repel them.
6. Stay inside during peak mosquito hours (between dusk and dawn).
Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn. The less you’re outdoors during these “peak hours,” the less likely you are to get bitten. If you must be out during these hours, avoid wearing cologne or perfume, as fragrances can make you more attractive to mosquitoes.
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Boston Mosquito Control
If your property has problems with mosquitoes every summer, it’s time to call in the Boston mosquito control experts at Pestex Inc! Our team uses years of experience and proven methods to provide you with long-term relief from mosquito issues: (617) 332-3344.
