Dreaming of a Bug-Free Summer? You can have it!

Irritated by mosquitoes, ticks, and stinging insects that take over your yard every year?

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These pests are not only difficult to tame, but also quite dangerous to your health if using the wrong products. Good news: we’ve done our research and can tell you which products safe and affective versus which ones can actually cause some serious health issues!

How to Deal With:

  • Mosquitoes 1. Traps– (including fans, electric grids, adhesive pads) Traps are known to kill some mosquitoes, but it really is not evident they can actually reduce a significant amount of a yards mosquito population. 2. Misting Systems– (automatic spray/sprinklers) These spray insecticide products can really cause a resistance to pesticides when used widespread. 3. Yard Foggers– (spray cans) Products of this type can be effective, but carry a high risk to your health. When used incorrectly or inhaled, they can cause disruption to the hormone system and have been linked to developmental, neurological, and other serious health issues.

So how can you get rid of mosquitoes and keep your family safe at the same time? First off, try to create an environment that discourages mosquitoes. Since they love water, be sure to avoid fountains, bird baths, and other containers filled with water. Also, get rid of decaying plants and ivy. Lastly, using candles with citronella, oil tiki torches, and LED lights can be your go-to for a mild repellant.

  • Ticks: These pests are not only gross, but a huge hazard. Ticks are known for loving shady areas, so the best route when dealing with them is to keep your grass cut short and trees trimmed back. It is also a great idea to install a fence that will keep out tick carriers, such as deer and rabbits.
  • Stinging Insects: Bees and wasps can be quite difficult to get rid of once they have found a home in your yard. We have found the best solution is to take steps to keep them from coming in by covering food when outside and keeping trashcan lids tight. If these stinging insects do colonize, there are a few things to keep in mind. Remove nests only if they become high traffic areas. If it is necessary to remove a nest, make sure to do so in off season (winter/fall) or at least at night. Be sure to wear protective clothing and NEVER remove a nest if it requires a ladder; call a professional!

 Choosing a Repellant:

  • Always Go the Natural Route: When browsing the shelves, look for products with a plant base. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus is a good choice. This product contains a synthesized version of a naturally occurring chemical. You can also look for repellants with 20 percent picaridin.
  • When to Consider Deet: The EPA suggests that Deet carries serious side effects such as seizures when ingested, applied for 3 or more consecutive days, or when using products that contain 95 percent or more of the chemical. Products with 15 percent or less, such as Off Family Care Smooth and Dry, are a safe choice. Stay away from products like Jungle Juice 100, which contains 98 percent deet. Off Clip-on or devices that attach to clothes and use a fan to circulate repellant. These devices contain metofluthrin, which carries serious risks to your nervous system and most of the time these products fail to even work.

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At Wilson Realty Group we hope you and your family are able to enjoy a bug-free and fun-filled summer!

 
For more details contact or assistance with your real estate needs, contact The Wilson Realty Group in Raleigh by phone: (919) 378-1974 or by email: Info@WilsonRealtyGroupNC.com