Our friends over at the American Mosquito Control Association started this initiative with the ultimate goal of educating the public about mosquitoes, the risks associated with mosquito bites, and the significance of mosquito control providers like the crew here at Mosquito.buzz.
What is Mosquito Awareness Week?
Mosquito Awareness Week falls on June 26 until July 2 this year, and was initially created in the wake of the West Nile Virus back in 2002. With recent outbreaks of Zika in South America and multiple athletes pulling out of the impending 2016 Olympics in Rio, the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses makes Mosquito Awareness Week particularly significant this year.
One of AMCA's primary objectives this week is to spread their "3 D's of Mosquito Control" mantra; Drain, Dress and Defend.
Drain standing water
Everybody can do their bit to reduce mosquito breeding by safeguarding their own properties. Since mosquitoes need standing water to deposit their eggs after a blood meal, eliminating areas of stagnant water in your backyard can greatly reduce mosquito populations.
At least every 4 days, scan your yard for potential breeding sites and drain water from all sorts of containers, including;
- Pool covers, tarps, kids toys
- Gutters, pipes & faucets
- Old tires, tin cans, bottles, drums
- Air conditioner drip trays
- Boats, canoes, wheelbarrows
- Bird baths, plant pots, pet dishes
- Puddles that form in ruts (it'd be a good idea to fill in those areas for the future)
Dress appropriately to avoid mosquito bites
A mosquito doesn't just bite you at random; they've spent some time, from a distance, planning their attack. From that distance, people wearing dark colours are more visible and thus tend to be more likely targets for mosquitoes. Black clothing and dark colours, including blue, are going to make you an easier target, so opt for light-coloured clothing if you're going to be spending time outdoors.
Most mosquitoes can bite through tight-fitting clothes, so if you think your nylon tights or skin-tight tops are enough protection, you might want to rethink your wardrobe. Whenever possible, try to wear loose weave clothing. Covering up with long sleeves won't hurt either; combined with a light colour and a loose fit, you should be all set.
Defend yourself against mosquito bites
Of all 3 prevention methods, this is probably the most practiced. Having said that, it's not always top of mind to bring a bottle of repellent with you, so having one of the above back-up plans is a good idea.
AMCA recommend only using products that have been reviewed, approved and registered with the Environmental Protection Agency, so you're not putting anyone's skin at risk. Currently, 4 repellents have been deemed safe and effective to use; DEET, Picaridin, Oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535.
If you're looking for a little more peace of mind, spraying your property with a licensed barrier protection product from Mosquito.buzz is an effective safeguard against mosquito bites. Our licensed technicians will make repeat visits to your property to ensure you're fully protected throughout the mosquito season.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay in the know this Mosquito Awareness Week.
