10 Ways To Prevent Mosquito Bites

May 23, 2014 | Uncategorized

What Are 10 Ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites?

Here in the South, mosquitoes and summer go together like peanut butter and jelly. In North America there is an estimated 170 different species of mosquito. Sometimes it feels like 169 of those species live right here in the south. Aside from being a nuisance, mosquitoes can be a threat to our health. West Nile virus is a disease that is carried by mosquitoes and has become a concern in the US in recent years.

So how do you keep those pesky mosquitoes away? Below are 10 ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites:

1. Wear long clothes – We know it’s the summer and it’s hot but if possible, wear long sleeves and pants when you’re going to be outdoors.
2. Eliminate areas of standing water – Empty areas where water collects such as flower pots and bird baths.  Properly landscape areas of the yard where water pools.
3. Use insect repellant containing DEET – Follow the instructions on insect repellants that contain DEET.
4. Ensure windows and doors are screened – If you have windows and/or doors open make sure they are properly screened to keep mosquitoes from entering your home.
5. Avoid the outdoors between dusk and dawn – Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn. Avoid going outside during those times.
6. Try not to work up a sweat – Mosquitoes are attracted to the lactic acid in sweat.
7. Don’t move – Mosquitoes are attracted to movement, so be still!!
8. Wear light colored clothes – Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors so wear lighter colors to avoid their bites.
9. Don’t drink beer – Mosquitoes are beer lovers and will likely bite you if you are drinking one.
10. Keep body temperature low – Stay cool. The higher your body temperature, the more attracted mosquitoes are to you.

Mosquito treatments can also be a great way to prevent mosquitoes. Northwest Exterminating offers a GREEN mosquito program that targets both mosquito larvae and adult mosquitoes.