5 Ways to Repel Mosquitos
Mosquitoes do more than lay 100 eggs at a time, breed in water, and create an annoying buzz during summer outdoor activities. They also carry and spread diseases such as malaria, West Nile virus, and encephalitis. A variety of options for both residential and commercial clients provide superior protection in all seasons, but the following five options are the safest.
Apply Personal Repellant
When spending time outdoors, personal repellants prevent mosquito bites. Long-sleeved shirts and pants offer the safest protection, but they are not foolproof. The application of permethrin-based products on clothing lasts for several washings and provides a second layer of protection. The Centers for Disease Control and Environmental Protection Agency also recommend safe repellants like DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus that may be applied directly to exposed skin. Combined, these repellant options safely protect people from mosquitoes.
Drain Standing Water
Mosquitoes breed in water, and many species lay their eggs in water. Draining all standing water around a property reduces the mosquito population. Pools, watering troughs, plant containers, rain gutters, and any other outdoor standing water should be drained regularly or treated with BTI, a microbial control agent that’s safe for humans, pets, and wildlife.
Buy Mosquitofish
In addition to draining water, mosquitofish dine on immature insects and keep ponds clean. These fish thrive in man-made bodies of water that are free of dense emergent vegetation. While mosquitofish do not repel mosquitoes, they do offer safe mosquito control.
Use Bug Light Bulbs
Yellow bug light bulbs don’t prevent mosquitoes from biting. Installing them in landscaping perimeter lamps will keep mosquitoes from invading targeted backyard areas, however. This option is safe and easy.
Insecticide Sprays and Foggers
Outdoor insecticide sprays or foggers safely control adult mosquito populations. They work best when applied consistently over time rather than sporadically or before the occasional outdoor gathering. A programmable and automatic misting system sprays biodegradable insecticide at regularly scheduled intervals. It may also be operated with a remote control. A weatherproof reservoir attaches to tubes and nozzles that are placed discreetly around the property for discreet yet effective mosquito control that won’t harm ladybugs, plants, pets, or humans.
Mosquito repellents come in all shapes and sizes. These protective options are safest to use and keep residential and commercial areas mosquito-free all season.
