This weekend, the United States reaches a monumental milestone: our Semi quincentennial. As families prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of our nation by making outdoor plans, often pest-battle preparation goes overlooked. While everyone is welcome at backyard barbecues and fireworks displays during a 4th of July party, ants, flies, and mosquitoes are not!
As you plan your historic 250th anniversary bash, a little preparation will go a long way in ensuring your celebration isn’t overrun by pests.
Defend the Picnic from Ants
Keep all food in airtight containers until it’s time to eat. If Uncle Sam spills his sweet tea or soda, wipe it up immediately. Sugar is instant marching orders for an ant colony. For an extra layer of protection, you can spray a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar around the legs of your picnic tables; the scent disrupts their pheromone trails and keeps them grounded.
Keep Flies Off the Franks
Your best defense is a physical barrier. Invest in inexpensive mesh food tents to cover your platters when they are out on the table. Equally important is managing your waste. Make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids and move them as far away from your dining area as possible. A clean cooking space is a fly-free cooking space.
Reclaim the Evening from Mosquitoes
In the days leading up to your party, walk your property and empty any standing water where mosquitoes breed. During the party, set up oscillating fans around your patio or seating area; mosquitoes are notoriously weak flyers, and the breeze will keep them away. Finally, keep a basket of EPA-approved insect repellent.
A Quick Holiday Note
As we prepare to celebrate this historic 250th Independence Day with our own families, please note that WellTech Pest Solutions will be closed on Friday, July 3rd, in observance of the Saturday, July 4th holiday. We will resume our normal business hours on Monday to handle all your post-holiday pest control needs.
From all of us at WellTech, have a safe, joyous, and bug-free 250th birthday, America!