The Memorial Day weekend is upon us!  School is out, the pools are open and the unofficial start of summer is here.  It certainly feels good after a long, cold winter. 

If your family is like mine, you’ll be spending part of the weekend outside, maybe grilling or having a picnic at the park.  And where there is food, there will be bugs. Ants, flies, yellow jackets and mosquitoes are all attracted to the sweets of barbecue, and subsequently to those enjoying such fare.  These pests should never be allowed to join the festivities as ants can contaminate food, stinging insects send more than a half-million people to the emergency room each year, and mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus. 

Here are some tips for keeping your outdoor meals pest-free:

-Serve food and beverages indoors, and reserve outdoor space for eating and entertaining. 

-Keep food sealed in containers or covered whenever possible, and wipe tabletops frequently.

-Bring utensils and dishware indoors shortly after the meal. 

-Dispose of trash in closed garbage containers and keep receptacles a good distance from where guests are gathered.

-To prevent mosquitoes, remove/drain sources of standing water in the yard that could be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, including birdbaths and kiddie pools.  When outside, wear insect repellent on exposed skin to prevent mosquito bites.

–Stinging insects are attracted to fragrances from candles, perfumes and even the food and drinks you serve. Provide clear cups for beverages, as soda/juice cans are good hiding spots for stinging pests.

I hope you and your family have a fun, safe and pest-free Memorial Day weekend!

Brent