Summertime brings a lot of fun activities, such as barbecues, pool parties, vacations, and camping trips. The hot weather also brings out stuff that’s not so fun, like pests. Just like you enjoy the hot weather, insects and rodents do as well. They tend to come out and invade homes and yards. 

All pests are annoying, but most people will agree that mosquitoes are the most annoying. Not only do they buzz but they bite humans, creating itchy red bumps on the skin. You may wonder: what purpose do mosquitoes serve? Mosquitoes are actually an important part of the food chain, serving as food for fish, birds, bats, and frogs. Some species also serve as pollinators.

Mosquitoes come out in the spring as early as March and may stick around until October. This means they can ruin your summer fun. The good news is that there are things you can do to keep them away from your yard. Here are some tips to help.

Get Rid of Standing Water
Mosquitoes breed in bodies in water, so if you have any water standing around, mosquitoes could be nearby. You can prevent them from infesting your yard by eliminating puddles and other bodies of water. Look inside plants, in pet dishes, in tree trunks, garbage cans, gutters, and under leaky pipes. Dump over any buckets and toys that may be collecting rainwater. Clean out wading pools and bird baths often to eliminate mosquitoes.  

Keep Your Yard Tidy
Keeping your yard cleaned up can go a long way in keeping mosquitoes away. Mosquitoes love to hide in overgrown vegetation, so be prepared to do some yard work. Trim bushes and trees and keep the lawn mowed short. Pull weeds and get rid of other shady areas that can attract these pests.  

Cover Up Entryways
Mosquitoes can easily get into your home through gaps in the siding of your home or by opening a door or window for a short amount of time. Put screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from getting in. Do an assessment around the exterior of your home and look for any cracks or gaps and seal them up with caulk to prevent easy entry. 

Use Repellents 
When going outdoors, use a repellent spray that contains DEET. This is one of the most effective chemicals against mosquitoes. Be sure to spray it all over exposed skin — including your face. Long sleeves are the way to go, even in hot weather. Light-colored, breathable clothing is best.

Contact Us Today
‍Mosquitoes are annoying pests that can ruin an outdoor party and make you want to stay indoors. Don’t live your life in fear.

Instead, contact Environmental Pest Control and enjoy your yard once again. We have the tools and expertise to get rid of these pests for good. Give us a call at (540) 441-7397 to request service or learn more about our plans. We serve the Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia areas.