THEY’RE BACK.. and They are Bigger Than Ever!
If you’re from the Coastal Bend or if you’ve just spent one full summer here, you know what happens after a heavy downpour. The 17 plus inches of rain last week means it’s time to prepare for those pesky pests that always follow. The U.S. is home to more than 150 mosquito varieties and it seems like all of them live in South Texas. With or without the fear of the Zika virus, now is the perfect time to amp-up your mosquito-fighting skills!
Here are 5 Tips to Reduce Your Risk of being bitten by those pesky bugs:
1) Use mosquito repellent that contains DEET and follow the directions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends products with at least 20 percent DEET concentration for the best protection. The EPA found DEET chemical poses no health risk as long as you carefully follow the instructions printed on bug spray containers.
2) Try using a bug spray with natural ingredients.
Some plant-based sprays may also be effective for fighting off bites. The CDC says products that include oil of lemon eucalyptus can be a more natural remedy for some.
3) Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
Summer means outrageous heat and humidity but wearing a lightweight, long-sleeved top and a pair of pants for a day outdoors can save you from a lot of itching later on.
4) Spray your clothing with permethrin.
Permethrin spray practically creates a forcefield between you and mosquitoes, as well as some other insects. You can purchase permethrin-treated clothing at outdoors stores, or do it yourself at home. The spray helps prevent bugs from even landing on your clothes, and the treatment can withstand several machine washes.
5) Empty containers of standing water around your home.
Standing water is the ideal nesting ground for mosquitoes. It’s especially important to empty containers of standing water such as in kiddie pools and flower pot saucers.
Bonus Tip number Six. Wear white or other light color clothing as mosquitoes are attracted to dark colored clothing… they are especially attracted to black and navy blue.
Each of us at Ed Cantu Insurance Agency want to help protect you and your family against know and unknown perils so call us at (361) 991-1493 when you need help. Summer time is also a great time to review and update your protection.
Because we Care,
Ed Cantu
P.S. When you need professional help with your pesky pests, I recommend you call our good friend Kent Nielsen at Pest Patrol (361) 852-4002.
P.P.S. Share these helpful safety tips with someone you care for… I just did!