It’s that time of year for outdoor celebrations. Whether it’s for graduation party, a wedding reception, shower, engagement party or just a casual BBQ, there is one final detail that you many have forgotten about –mosquito, and outdoor pest control! Imagine, you have the food prepared, the music and entertainment has started, guests have arrived and are beginning to enjoy your well planned event BUT THEN… they start swatting around each other because the mosquitoes have moved in! You’re deliciously prepared food has flies swarming before the first person has even been served. We want to make make our guests comfortable and one of the best ways to do this is to follow these tips to avoid mosquito and fly bites and be at an increased risk of contracting a mosquito-borne illness.
What is a Barrier Treatment?
Your best option is a Barrier Treatment application from Mosquito SQUAD your local outdoor pest company. Professional and licensed technicians can spray traditional OR all-natural products forming a protective barrier. They consult with you for a customized solution for all target pests as well as the area you want protected. Because there is no size limitation on the treated area, you are ensured that no matter where your guests may roam, they are comfortable and protected. Barrier treatments are typically applied a day or two before your event so there is no risk of product exposure for your guests. The protection can last 7-21 days.
Pros and Cons of additional outdoor pest control options:
- Bug zappers work very well for killing lots of bugs. Unfortunately, mosquitoes aren’t attracted to the zapper’s florescent lighting, they are looking for your blood and are attracted to your CO2 in your breath. Research has documented there’s no difference in mosquito population in zapper areas versus areas that weren’t using them. Their annoying zapping noise may make it appear that they are working but they aren’t effective for mosquitoes.
- Netting or a screened tent is another approach often used to prevent outdoor pests. The first obvious downfall of netting is the protected area size. Typically screened tents are too small to protect guests. The world’s largest net has been recorded at about 50 feet. However, even at 50 feet of coverage, guests will be moving around, and going in and out of the screened area. Mosquitoes will see this as their opportunity to find their blood meal and move into the screened area. Luckily, you have more options!
- Repellants are the most common and economical option. They are sold under many different creams, sprays and brand names. Conveniently sold at a variety of locations, they are a quick solution. Unfortunately their labels prove that most contain a chemical known as DEET. Although DEET is effective by interfering with the mosquitoes’ receptors to find you, the application of the product, which requires being applied to all exposed skin, is messy and inconvenient. You certainly don’t want any DEET residue left on your hands if you are serving food. In low doses, it can result in nausea and vomiting. In higher doses, it can cause low blood pressure and slow heart rates. In extreme cases it can also cause neurologic problems, including seizures and onset a coma. So the economical and convenient option obviously is not the best for a large-scale outdoor event. There’s simply too much of a health risk. Not to mention, DEET-based repellents typically have an odor, which can be unpleasant to your guests.
- Citronella candles can be part of a successful event venue for mosquito control. Many contain chemicals, such as citronella oil, that are known insect repellents. Conceal Candles, burn a substance that affects the mosquito’s sensory system that basically makes them unable to detect the CO2 being emitted from your guests. The biggest challenge is candles don’t provide full coverage when people are moving around, and there is a risk with the open flame for other objects (or kids) to come in contact with the flame. Researchers agree that burning mosquito-repellent candles at dinner or at guest tables enhances mosquito prevention, but it doesn’t provide the coverage you need and can be costly.
Don’t become victim of a ruined event. Allow yourself and your guests the most pleasant and enjoyable time that will create memories for years to come. Call The SQUAD at 217-919-2029 or visit our website.
