07/14/14

Pest Prevention Tips: Dealing With Summer Pests

Pest Prevention Tips: Dealing With Summer Pests

7/14/2014

Summer is in full swing and the choices of outdoor activities are abundant. It would be good, however, to remember that the start of summer also ushers in the beginning of pest season. There is no question that homeowners experience threats and concerns with pests year round but the intensity of concern is heightened during those summer months. It is important to become aware of the risks of some of summer’s most threatening pests and learn how to protect yourself and your family from potential danger.

One of the most prevalent pests during the summer season is the mosquito. Mosquitoes are disliked because of their pesky buzzing sound and biting sting. However, the real threat posed by the mosquito is the ability to spread numerous diseases. These threatening diseases include West Nile virus, malaria, yellow fever and encephalitis. Of these diseases, the West Nile virus is the more common in the United States. Indoor prevention of mosquitoes is as simple as replacing all torn screens on windows and doors. Close doors quickly when coming in and out of the house. Outdoor prevention can be more detailed. Remove all standing water on your property, as this is perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Empty flowerpot trays and swimming pool covers. Also, look for and empty any buckets or containers that may have collected water.

Ticks always raise a lot of concern and are a real issue during the summer months. As with the mosquito, the threat posed by the tick bite is the potential for spreading of diseases. Black legged deer ticks are the greatest concern to humans and pets with the potential of contracting Lyme disease. Lyme disease poses many health risks and long lasting effects that calls for preventive measures. Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when going outdoors in wooded areas or tall grass. Light colored clothing will also make it easier to spot a tick that has hitched a ride on your body. Inspect yourself very carefully for ticks before going indoors. Keep your yard tick-free by keeping grass cut short and removing weeds and woodpiles.

Additional summer pests to avoid are bees, wasps and other stinging insects. These insects are not always thought of as a huge threat yet they send more than half a million people to the emergency room every year. Young children, elderly people and those who are prone to allergies are especially at risk. To minimize the chances of getting stung, wear shoes outdoors, especially in grassy areas. Empty garbage frequently and keep trashcans covered. You will also want to be sure all screens on windows and doors are in good condition with no rips or tears.

Other summer pests include a variety of ants. Remember, ants can only be eradicated once you find the ant colony. This is true with carpenter ants and termites. Learn to identify the carpenter ant and termite. Both are a risk to the structure of your home but each one requires a different approach for extermination.

It is almost impossible to eliminate summer pests but this does not mean you cannot enjoy your summer. Follow any and all prevention tips to reduce risk of exposure and if you see an abundance of any of the above-mentioned pests, be sure to contact your pest control company. Finally, be sure to seek immediate medical attention if there is the chance of having been exposed to threatening diseases.

Pest Prevention Tips: Dealing With Summer Pests