Summer Pest Tips

Hello California Baby Fans!
Since the summer season is almost upon us, we thought we would post some tips & prevention methods on how to avoid ticks and mosquitoes. These tips were taken (and edited!) from the EPA’s website; if you want to learn more (probably more than you’d ever want to know about pests), go to, http://www.epa.gov/

TICKS
Checking for ticks and prompt removal of attached ticks is probably the most important and effective method of preventing infection.

Behavior & Risk of Exposure

• Nymphal blacklegged ticks are very small (about the size of a pinhead), difficult to spot, and
• Are active during the late spring and summer months
• The majority (about 75%) of Lyme disease cases are associated with activities (play, yard or garden work) around the home.
• Ticks do not jump or drop from trees, but grasp passing hosts from the leaf litter, tips of grass, etc.
• Most ticks are probably picked up on the lower legs and then crawl up the body seeking a place to feed.
• Pets can bring ticks into the home, resulting in a tick bite without the person being outdoors.

MOSQUITOES

• Remove mosquito habitats
• Eliminate standing water in rain gutters, old tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys, or any other container where mosquitoes can breed.
• Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week to destroy potential mosquito habitats.
• Drain or fill temporary pools of water with dirt.
• Keep swimming pool water treated and circulating.
• Keep mosquitoes away from exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks.
• Tuck shirts into pants and pants into socks to cover gaps in your clothing where mosquitoes can get to your skin.
• Stay indoors at sunrise, sunset, and early in the evening when mosquitoes are most active.

Best,

Jessica