After a long and cold winter, New England is more than ready for summer, and Memorial Day marks the start of enjoying as much time as possible outside. However, as temperatures rise, so do the mosquito populations. Rain leaves the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to lay eggs, and soon after they hatch all at once!
Here are 5 facts about mosquitoes that may help you not only decrease your chances of getting bitten, but also lessen the miserable post-bite experience!
- Mosquitoes require water to breed. If you want to keep mosquitoes under control around your home, be vigilant about dumping any standing water every few days. Download our free checklist to reduce mosquito breeding near your home.
- Surprisingly, mosquitoes do not fly very well. Put a fan in front of your doorway, window, or whatever area you want to have open but repel mosquitoes. The mosquitos will not enter your home because they are not strong enough to fly against the breeze from the fan.
- Certain smells attract mosquitoes. Smelly feet, cheese, and sweet scents are three big ones. Make sure to cover food that may be laying out and put baby powder in your shoes and on your feet.
- Already bitten? Take the leftover basil from all of the delicious food and drinks you are preparing this weekend and rub the leaves on mosquito bites to help swelling. The basil has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Near the coast? Swimming in the ocean will also help reduce the irritation of the bite. The salt in the water serves as a disinfectant, which speeds up the overall healing process.
While repellents can work on the short-term, the best long-term solution to controlling mosquito populations is to use a safe and effective property spray that kills mosquitoes and their eggs on contact. Treatments of PROGAEA™ Tick & Mosquito eliminate mosquitoes in all life-stages on your property. Over time, treated areas create a residual barrier protecting the property between routine treatments.
Now that you are prepared to enjoy being outside without having to worry about mosquitoes, try out some of our favorite Memorial Day picnic-ready recipes!
Have a fun and safe holiday weekend!