Menomonee Falls NOW
June 5th, 2014
Shane McCoy
With longer days and warmer nights on the way, Wisconsinites are embracing the summer season and breaking out the coolers and flip flops. It’s the perfect time of year for picnics, tailgates and parties on the patio.
But before you start firing up the grill, homeowners may want to think about taking some preventative action against summer outdoor pests. Attracted by the smell of tasty treats and sweet-smelling drinks, unwanted pests have been known to crash parties and send guests running for the door. Luckily, there are several simple steps that property owners can take to reclaim their yards this summer.
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Outdoor entertaining tips to prevent pests:
- Check for holes, rips and tears in screens and windows, repairing or replacing them when necessary
- Use low pressure and sodium vapor lights outdoors. Certain light bulbs will attract insects including fluorescent, halogen, incandescent, mercury vapor and some LED lights
- Eliminate standing water in the yard by maintaining a continuous flow in ditches and monitoring sprinklers
- Clean up the yard, getting rid of old tires and artificial water containers where pests can hide
- Change water in birdbaths and wading pools once or twice a week
- Weed around the home frequently
- Unclog rain gutters and make sure flat roofs are dry
- Store wood and compost piles at least 25 feet away from patios and other entertaining areas
- Apply appropriate insecticide to shrubs, flowers and grassy areas
- Remove garbage, pet food, fallen fruit and any other sources of food surrounding the home
- Keep snacks and meals in covered and sealed containers whenever possible
- Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk – if possible, stay indoors at these times; If you decide to remain outdoors, use repellants to protect against mosquito bites
Taking preventative action against mosquitos, flies, wasps and other common pests is the best way to ensure a fun-filled and pest-free outdoor event.