Summer is coming: How to keep pesky mosquitoes away

(BPT) - Did you know that mosquitoes are active as early as late March in some regions of the country? And by May, they're a widespread nuisance across most of the United States. Mosquitoes are not just an annoyance that can make spending time in your yard less enjoyable — they can also carry diseases that are dangerous for both humans and pets, like West Nile disease, Zika, malaria and more, making them a serious health threat. There are actually over 3,500 species of mosquitoes worldwide, and a professional pest control service can help you learn which type you have, and how to deal with them properly.

To help you enjoy your outdoor spaces safely — and keep pests from getting inside your home — the experts at Mosquito Joe, a Neighborly company, offer their advice to help you plan for a pest-free season while minimizing environmental impact.

Mosquito Joe is a Gold-Level partner in the Environmental Protection Agency's Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP), which is prestigious recognition of the company's steps to help protect the environment at the same time that it works to protect your family. Mosquito Joe has taken significant steps to promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) services, an effective, environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices and sustainable pest control methods.

"We are incredibly honored to receive the EPA's PESP Gold Level designation," said Lou Schager, president of Mosquito Joe. "This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of our customers and communities by utilizing environmentally responsible practices. Through our partnership with the EPA, we aim to set a new standard in pest control that protects both people and the environment."

Here are concrete steps you can start taking now to ensure that you have a more relaxing, safer and healthier pest-free property this year:

Reduce standing water

• Empty birdbaths, fountains and buckets regularly to clean out standing water.
• Clean gutters to avoid water accumulation, plus clogs or damage.
• Maintain clean and well-circulated swimming pools.
• Repair leaky outdoor faucets promptly.
• Direct water away from the foundation.
• Set sprinkler timing to not overwater the lawn.

Maintain your landscaping

• Keep your yard weed-free.
• Cut grass and shrubs short and prevent overgrown vegetation.
• Ensure dumpsters are away from the structure.

Seal entry points

• Ensure caulking around doors and windows is in good repair.
• Seal cracks at the foundation, around outside spigots and HVAC lines.

Consult a professional outdoor pest control service

• Mosquito Joe can help defend your property against mosquitoes and ticks while also helping keep ants, spiders, cockroaches, and mice from entering your home.
• The company offers whole-yard protection, which is the most effective defense against pests.

Mosquito Joe protects your home and property from the outside while reducing pesticide risk inside. By planning ahead, taking concrete steps to keep mosquitoes from thriving in your yard, and using a professional outdoor pest control service, you can enjoy a pest-free season while minimizing the environmental impact.

Don't wait for spring's warm weather to activate the pests in your yard. Visit MosquitoJoe.com to get started today.