Protect Against Pests

Pests are annoying and can ruin any outdoor event. Don’t let this happen to you. Here are several tips that will keep your barbecue event pest-free, and you and your guests happy:

1. Keep lids on all your food containers. Aside from lids, plastic wrap and/or aluminum foil may also be used to cover your food at the buffet table. This will ensure that bugs, such as ants and flies, will not get into your food.

2. Search your yard for anthills. Prior to your barbecue, look for any mounds of dirt and/or a trail of ants in your backyard. Take care of this pest problem promptly, and you are likely to avoid any ants spoiling your picnic.

3. Use insect-repelling outdoor candles. During the summer months, as dusk approaches, and the sun slowly sets into the distance, pesky mosquitoes begin to emerge. Mosquitoes are most active from dusk till dawn; thus, they will come out to feed at the prime time you’re hosting your barbecue.

Don’t let these annoying insects ruin your barbecue! Outdoor citronella candles and torches help deter mosquitoes while providing an illuminating visual effect. These products are made of citronella oil, which is plant-based, and its scent is renowned as an excellent insect repellent.

4. Other bug-repelling gadgets. There are a variety of toxic and non-toxic fly traps available on the market. Also available are bug zappers, which attract flying insects by emitting a fluorescent light, and use high voltage electricity to kill the bugs.

Helpful Tip: It’s a good idea to keep these gadgets a good distance away from your house or patio in that you don’t want to directly attract insects to your porch. Place the traps away from your barbecue. Furthermore, bug zappers might not be the best choice, not only because they attract insects rather than repel them, but may also kill off beneficial flying insects.

5. Use bug spray. If bugs are becoming a nuisance at your outdoor barbecue event, keep a bottle of bug spray handy for you and your guests. There are numerous bug sprays to choose from, many of which are deemed safe for children.

6. Get rid of any standing water in your yard. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Get rid of any water that has accumulated in garbage cans, buckets, wheelbarrows, old tires, etc. Also, make sure you routinely clean your gutters and swimming pool.

7. April showers bring May flowers…and Allergies! Although a beautiful time of year - perfect for an outdoor get-together - many people, unfortunately, suffer from allergies during the spring, summer, and early fall months due to the increased levels of pollen, dust, mold, etc., in the air. However, don’t let allergies spoil your outdoor fun. Keep over-the-counter allergy medication handy - (i.e. Claritin (Loratadine); Benadryl (Diphenhydramine); Sudafed PE (Phenylephrine); Zyrtec (Cetirizine HCl); Zyrtec-D (Cetirizine/Pseudoephedrine); etc.) - to relieve allergy symptoms, such as red, itchy, watery eyes; nasal congestion; sneezing, etc. Note: Always consult your physician before taking any medication, and use as directed.