Summer is an anxiously awaited time of the year, mostly for the numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. But as the weather warms up, insects abound – ready to bring misery to picnics, pool parties, or other outdoor pastimes. From mosquitoes and ants, to bees and wasps, learn how to win the bug battle with these tips for managing insect bites and stings in the summer.
Take Precautions Against Pests
The best way to avoid being bitten or stung by insects is to take preventative measures against them. Bugs like mosquitoes can carry diseases to humans, so preventing mosquito bites is important not just to avoid uncomfortable bumps, but in preventing infections as well. Applying bug repellents containing DEET or essential oils diluted to a safe level has been proven to deter biting insects like mosquitoes. This is especially important during the hours when these flying menaces are most active around dawn and dusk. Mosquito netting over baby carriers and strollers helps protect infants that are sensitive to topical repellents.
For around your home, large outdoor fans strategically placed around sitting areas can also help ward off flying insects of all varieties. Remove standing water in flower pots, bird baths, and gutters where mosquitoes breed. Use screens in windows and doorways, and consider having your home or premises sprayed with commercial or natural pesticides to reduce the number of insects in your home.
Exercise caution when lifting rocks or timber, or when hiking through wooded areas. Pests like spiders and scorpions often hide out under rocks or secluded areas, and can bite or sting when provoked. Ticks lie in wait on the underside of leaves, blades of grass, or in other vegetation, and can easily hitch a ride as your body brushes up against their hiding places. Bee hives can also be found in surprising places, so watch out for signs of bees under the baseboards or eaves of outbuildings.