One of the best parts of summer is spending time outside, but unfortunately, the warm weather also brings out various pests in endless droves. Mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and other stinging and biting insects are not only annoying but capable of spreading diseases and causing serious health problems for your loved ones. Follow the tips below to protect yourself this summer.
Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself From Stings and Bites
- Use insect repellent according to the directions and reapply frequently.
- Avoid scented skin or hair products, brightly colored clothing, and open-toe shoes.
- Keep all food and beverages covered, especially juice, soda, and other sweet items.
- Stay inside during dawn and dusk, the most active time for mosquitoes.
- Drain standing water from kiddie pools, tarps, flowerpots, birdbaths, and any other items in your yard that allow water to accumulate.
- Repair any rips, holes, or other damage to window and door screens.
- Thoroughly check yourself for ticks after being outside, especially on areas they can easily hide, including your scalp, armpits, back of the knees, groin, and navel.
- Ensure your garbage and recycling containers are tightly sealed.
- Keep a lookout for nests of bees, hornets, and yellow jackets when doing yard work.
- Never approach a nest or attempt to handle the problem yourself—call an exterminator right away! Hornets and yellow jackets, in particular, can become highly aggressive and sting several times.
- Do not swat at insects or wave your arms. Calmly, slowly move away from them instead.
- Monitor your mattress and sheets for small brown ovals and reddish-black spots. This indicates a bed bug infestation, which must be dealt with immediately.
- Prevent rodents like mice and rats from entering your home by tightly sealing off all entrance points, regularly maintaining your yard, and trimming weeds from your house.
- Check high moisture regions of your home for signs of carpenter ants, such as piles of wood shavings and foraging trails.
- Understand the symptoms of a bite or sting that require medical attention.
Keep Your Family Safe From Harmful Pests
Ultimately, the most valuable step you can take this summer to avoid stinging and biting insects from harming your family is to hire the experts at A-One Exterminators. Our local, family-owned business offers more than 30 years of experience helping thousands of clients effectively combat their pest problems. We provide comprehensive, environmentally friendly services so you can enjoy your summer with peace of mind knowing your family is protected from annoying and harmful pests.
