Every year, like clockwork, mosquitoes become active again. And, with the threat of a Zika outbreak, more people are getting prepared for this increased mosquito activity like never before. Here are a few ways they’re protecting themselves from mosquito-borne viruses.
Personal Mosquito Protection
There are many things you can do personally to prevent mosquito bites.
- Be aware that mosquitoes are most active in the morning and evening. Going out during these times increases the chances of being bitten.
- Mosquitoes are attracted to sweat. If you exercise outdoors, you increase your chances of being bitten.
- Studies have shown that drinking beer can increase attractiveness to mosquitoes.
- Wear long sleeves and pants when possible.
- Apply insect repellent with DEET. If you don’t prefer to have chemicals on your skin, consider spraying it on your clothing.
- Apply a repellent with oil of lemon eucalyptus, if you prefer a natural repellent.
- Netting is great for protecting outdoor areas, but netting can also come with apparel that you wear. If you’re going to be mowing the lawn, and you don’t want to be bitten, consider putting on some clothing with netting.
- Going to areas that are high in humidity or moisture will increase your chances of getting bit.
Reduction Of Breeding Sites
Mosquitoes breed in still water. If you have any objects in your yard that collect rainwater, consider removing these items. All it takes is a cup of water for a mosquito to lay eggs. They can lay eggs in a toy that is sitting in the yard, an obstructed gutter, and even a hole pocket in a swing set. Keeping things dry will reduce mosquitoes.
Strategies For Backyard Mosquito Protection
If you’re going to be in your backyard, and you want to protect yourself, here are a few strategies that will help.
- Use fans to create a natural breeze where you’ll be sitting or lounging.
- Use nets to make protected areas.
- Reduce vegetation in your yard that can hold water on their leaves or that require lots of water to grow.
- Refrain from putting up a bug zapper. Studies have shown that zappers draw mosquitoes into a yard, but are only effective at killing male (non-biting) mosquitoes.
Mosquito Abatement
Now is the time to start mosquito services for your home or business. This mosquito control method kills eggs before they hatch and reduces potential breeding sites before mosquitoes come to lay more eggs. While the government invests in mosquito abatement, their efforts alone are not enough for complete protection. Home and business owners need to take part to keep our communities safer.
If you are in our South Carolina service area, let Spencer get your mosquito protection in place with our mosquito control services. Mosquito season can start as early as March. Don’t let those mosquitoes breed or hide in your yard. Fight back with mosquito abatement.