Are you a mosquito magnet? Do you live in a warm humid climate? Do you have children and pets that love to enjoy time outside during the summer? If you answered yes to any of these questions, keep reading.
Mosquitoes are a huge annoyance here in Atlanta and throughout the world. Not only are mosquito bites painful but they carry a variety of dangerous diseases. And they can be a real downer when you’re trying to spend time outdoors. So is there a way to prevent mosquitoes? The answer is yes. There are several ways you can eliminate and prevent mosquitoes from around your home and yard.
1. Remove Mosquito Breeding Areas
Mosquitoes will breed almost anywhere that stagnant, standing water is present. Be sure and put toys away, remove any buckets, containers, debris or trash, correct any drainage issues, and keep gutters clean. If you have fountains, bird baths, or any other feature that contains water, change the water often (at least once a week).
2. Make Plans
Mosquitoes are most active in the late afternoon and evening. If you’re making outside plans, try and schedule activities before sunset.
3. Replace Outdoor Lighting
The EPA recommends using yellow “bug” lights in all of your outdoor lighting fixtures. These will not repel mosquitoes but also won’t attract them like standard lights will.
4. Wear Light-colored Clothing
Mosquitoes are drawn to dark colors. While wearing lighter colored clothing doesn’t guarantee you won’t be bitten, it will help make you a less attractive food source.
5. Use Fans & Candles
Citronella candles have a mild effect at deterring mosquitoes. You can also set up fans in areas where you spend the most time outside, like on decks or patios since mosquitoes are weak fliers.
6. Use Mosquito Repellent
Find an insect repellent labeled specifically for mosquitoes. There are many options available including natural repellents. Use the EPA’s helpful tool to find a mosquito repellent that’s right for you and your family.
7. Get a Professional Opinion
You can take all the precautions for mosquito prevention and still get bitten. Having your property inspected by a professional mosquito control company will give you more insight into the problem areas – potential or existing mosquito breeding sites – and provide you with options for mosquito treatments. Most mosquito control companies either utilize a combination of larvicide and adulticide mosquito treatments or mosquito misting systems. Contact your local exterminator to find out which one is right for your home.