World Pest Day Brings Awareness This Summer

06/06/2019

Ants    General Pest Control    Mosquitoes    Stinging Insects    Ticks    Tips/Solutions   

June 6, 2019, has been declared World Pest Day, a multinational event, according to the National Pest Management Association NPMA. This day was established to raise awareness among the public, government and media about the important role that the pest control industry plays in protecting health, food, property and the environment from pest health threats. What would World Pest Day be without tips and tricks to keep pests out of your home this summer?

As stated in an outlook released by The Weather Company, the summer heat is predicted to be hotter than average starting in June. More heat means more time outdoors and of course, more time outdoors means a higher chance of bug bites. Here are a few pests to look out for this summer:

Mosquitoes

All summer long, female mosquitoes lay eggs in puddles, clogged gutters, toys left in the yard and other containers that retain water. Reducing these water sources around the home is important to keep mosquitoes at a minimum. Be sure to get your home ready for summer with a visual inspection. Check screens on windows and doors and perform these inspections weekly to ensure water is not sitting stagnant around the home.

Stinging Insects

Wasps and hornets love food just as much as the next person. During the summer, they show up to cookouts and outdoor events looking for meats and sweets. Events with food prep should be planned accordingly to ensure containers can be properly sealed when not in use or get ready for unwanted guests to join the party. Trash cans should be emptied throughout the day to ensure wasted food and trash is not left behind to attract these pests to your area. Around the home be sure that you keep your trash cans sealed and that they are sprayed regularly to remove any debris.

Ticks

For those who like to explore the great outdoors, be on the lookout for areas where ticks can lurk in the grass and vegetation. Avoid tall grass, walk near the center of paths, and apply insect repellent to your pant legs and shoes. Use repellents with 25%-30% DEET to ensure the most effective protection and always check for ticks after outdoor activities.

Ants

Prevent ants from invading your home this summer by addressing conditions of moisture. Rainy days force pesky ants to seek shelter so be sure to keep food sources contained and seal any small holes or gaps around the home where activity has been present before. Remember ants send scavengers, so where there is one, more are sure to follow.

This time of year, schedules fill up and home care can easily fall off the priority list. Contact the pest professionals at American Pest for more information on how to save on pest control and never wait until an infestation takes over your home.