By: Sarah Gazi, ALP CEO

As temperatures rise, so does the presence of mosquitoes. Are you equipped to help your guests ward off these pesky disease carriers? Drawing from my experience in mosquito control (another story for another day), I'm eager to share some strategies to safeguard your guests' comfort.

Repellents
Provide a variety of repellents for your guests to choose from. FDA-approved options include DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus, among others. While DEET may be the go-to for some, others may prefer a natural alternative like oil of lemon eucalyptus. Just as you offer an array of teas, cater to diverse preferences with a selection of repellents.

Prepare your outdoor spaces
Take proactive measures to make your outdoor areas less attractive to mosquitoes. Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed. Consider illuminating outdoor spaces with General Electric yellow "bug lights," which are less appealing to mosquitoes than traditional incandescent bulbs. Consider placing fans in outdoor seating areas; mosquitoes are weak fliers, and fans provide a cost-effective, low-tech solution to deter them. While citronella has some mild repellent properties, it's wise not to rely solely on it.

Avoid bug zappers, as they not only kill mosquitoes but also beneficial insects that prey on pests. Studies show no significant reduction in mosquito populations from bug zappers, making their presence more of a nuisance than a solution. The sound of bugs being electrocuted doesn't exactly add to the ambiance. 

Did you know?
In many states, mosquito control is a county government service. For example, I live in NJ and pay for mosquito control as a part of my taxes. I can call my county mosquito control district at any time to request they come investigate a mosquito problem and treat it as needed.

Many of your property's outdoor spaces are designed for guests to enjoy. However, an itchy guest is unlikely to be a happy one. Consider implementing these ideas to protect your guests and enhance their experience this season.