Mosquito Season Is Here. Here’s How to Protect Yourself.

With more people spending more time at home during the dog days of summer, having a backyard is a major premium. Plenty of people will grab a kiddie pool (whether they have kids or not) just to dip their feet in and kick back with a cold one.

The only problem:  Mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes not only bite us and cause itchy welts to show up, but they also carry a variety of diseases, such as Zika, West Nile virus, dengue, and malaria. As if COVID wasn’t enough to worry about.

You see, mosquitoes love the type of weather we have in here in Maryland—hot and humid. They love water—and especially things that hold water, like that kiddie pool but also lawn furniture, toys that collect water, buckets, trash cans, and their lids, and so much more. Basically, mosquitoes will love it if it can hold water.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to make your backyard less appealing to these pests. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Remove Anything That Holds Water

Dump out anything that holds water, dry it, and store it in a dry place. Unfortunately, that kiddie pool may have to go. If you’re not quite ready to get rid of your little blow-up oasis, consider emptying it when not in use. The same goes for anything else you might leave outside that could collect water. Trash cans, for example, should be covered at all times (coincidentally, this helps prevent stinging pests from being attracted to your yard).

Keep Gutters Clean

Mosquitoes really love hanging out in gutters that are blocked with debris. Make sure your gutters are cleaned out as needed.

Cut Down Overgrown Weedy Areas

Overgrown areas provide great harborage for mosquitoes so be sure to keep the weeds cut and remove/thin out the vegetation in those locations.

Use Fans, Even Outside

In addition to lighting citronella candles, consider getting an oscillating fan. As you probably know, mosquito wings are fairly thin and frail. A well-placed fan can blow them off course, keeping them away from you.

Of course, if you have a major mosquito problem in your yard, you might need professional help. Contact us to have a free consultation where we’ll investigate the infestation and provide you with safe and effective options for getting it under control.