Gunter Pest Control Offers Tips on How to Get Rid of Mosquitos
We know how it feels to enjoy a lovely dinner on the patio or deck and wake up to those pesky bug bites. Awful, just miserable. What’s worse, tick and mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile Virus, Zika, and Lyme Disease are on the rise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that cases of mosquito, flea and tick bites have tripled in the US from 2004 – 2016. The National Pest Management Association has issued a press release advising the public to take precautions. Learn tips on getting rid of mosquitos during the summer months by starting to take precautions and work to repel mosquitos during the spring.
How To Get Rid Of Gnats & Mosquitoes
Eight Tips on HOW TO GET RID OF Mosquitos
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Wear insect repellant when you know you’re going outdoors. Sunscreen and insect repellant. The NPMA recommends one that’s EPA-approved and contains at least 20 percent DEET, or has picaridin or oil of lemon-eucalyptus. Be sure to spray over the top of your clothing and only after sunscreen is applied for it to be effective. Remember to follow directions and reapply as directed on the label.
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Eliminate breeding areas for mosquitos. They can breed in stagnant water that is only a half an inch deep! So, check your birdbaths, children’s toys, grill covers, flowerpots, and any other area that collects water.
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Set your lawn mower on low and cut your grass short. Remove weeds, woodpiles and keep your plants cleaned up and pruned, especially around patios and play areas.
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To help avoid ticks, wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed-toed shoes. And, remember to keep your hair pulled back and under a hat.
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Repair all the screens on your doors and windows.
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Protect your pets, because they can also contract Lyme disease from black-legged ticks and other illnesses from mosquitos. Check with your vet on the best preventive treatments. And, don’t walk your dogs in the woods or in tall grasses if you can help it.
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Inspect your pet and your self when you come in from a walk. When you find a tick, remove it with a tweezer. Get as close to the skin as possible and grasp it with the tweezers with a slow, steady pull to make sure you get the whole tick including mouthparts. Then clean your hands and the affected area thoroughly. Flush the tick down the toilet or wrap it in a tissue before you dispose of it in a closed container. Try to avoid crushing the tick’s body when removing it. If you see a rash or fever within the next few weeks, make sure you see a doctor.
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As always, count on your pest management crew at Gunter to help you treat fleas, mosquitos, or ticks in and around your home. Our technicians can treat the inside of your home as well as the outside on a regular basis so you can take back your backyard (and front yard)!!!
For More Information Check Out This Mosquito Infographic And Share With Your Friends
Summer Bugs To Watch For
Mosquitoes
How to Get Rid Of Mosquitoes: FAQ
What Mosquito Repellent Plants Are Safe for Dogs?
When it comes to keeping mosquitoes at bay while ensuring the safety of your furry friends, several mosquito repellent plants are safe for dogs. Among these are citronella, lemon balm, marigolds, and rosemary. Citronella, commonly found in candles and oils, emits a scent that repels mosquitoes but is harmless to dogs when used in moderate amounts. Lemon balm, with its lemony fragrance, is a natural mosquito deterrent and is safe for dogs when grown in your garden or used as an herbal remedy. Marigolds not only add a pop of color to your outdoor space but also contain compounds that mosquitoes find unappealing, making them a safe option for dog-friendly mosquito control. Similarly, rosemary, with its fragrant foliage, can help repel mosquitoes while being non-toxic to dogs. However, it's essential to ensure that your dog doesn't ingest large quantities of these plants, as overconsumption could lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
Does Burning Sage Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Burning sage, also known as smudging, is a practice rooted in various cultures for its purported cleansing and purifying properties. While sage smoke may repel certain insects due to its strong scent, its effectiveness against mosquitoes is limited. Mosquitoes are more likely to be deterred by scents such as citronella or lemon eucalyptus oil rather than sage smoke. However, if you enjoy the ritual of burning sage for its calming effects or spiritual significance, you may notice a temporary reduction in mosquito activity in the immediate vicinity. Still, for more reliable mosquito control, it's best to utilize proven repellents or natural alternatives specifically designed for deterring mosquitoes.
Does Lavender Incense Repel Mosquitoes?
Lavender is renowned for its pleasant aroma and calming properties, but its effectiveness as a mosquito repellent is somewhat debated. While some people swear by lavender's ability to keep mosquitoes at bay, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited. Burning lavender incense may release compounds that mosquitoes find unpleasant, thus potentially reducing their presence in the area temporarily. However, its effectiveness as a standalone mosquito repellent may vary, and it may not provide comprehensive protection against mosquitoes, especially in areas with high mosquito activity. If you enjoy the scent of lavender incense and want to experiment with its mosquito-repelling properties, you can certainly give it a try, but consider using additional measures for more reliable mosquito control.
Will Chlorine Kill Mosquito Larvae?
Chlorine is commonly used to sanitize swimming pools and other water bodies, and yes, it can kill mosquito larvae. Mosquito larvae breed in stagnant water, so introducing chlorine to these breeding sites can effectively eliminate them. However, it's important to use chlorine carefully and according to manufacturer instructions to avoid harming other aquatic life or causing environmental damage. Additionally, chlorine levels must be maintained within safe limits for swimming to prevent skin and respiratory irritation in humans and pets. While chlorine can be an effective tool for controlling mosquito larvae in swimming pools and water features, other methods, such as biological larvicides or natural predators like mosquito fish, may be more suitable for smaller bodies of water or areas where chlorine treatment is impractical.
How to Get Mosquitoes Out of Garage?
Getting mosquitoes out of your garage can be a pesky task, but there are several strategies you can try. Start by eliminating any standing water sources in or around the garage, as these serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Check for and empty containers, tarps, or gutters that may collect water. Next, install screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering the garage while still allowing airflow. Consider using mosquito repellents or traps designed for indoor use to deter mosquitoes from lingering in the area. Additionally, you can create airflow using fans to make the environment less favorable for mosquitoes. Finally, if mosquitoes persist despite these measures, consult with a pest control professional to explore further options for mosquito control tailored to your specific situation.