Is Your 4th Of July BBQ Pest-Proofed?

Who doesn't love a fourth of July cookout? People who have it invaded by irritating pests, that's who. When ants start crawling all over everything, flies start landing everywhere, and yellow jackets get nosy, it can turn a fun time into a serious frustration. If you'd like to have fewer troubles with these insects or some other summer pests, we have some tips that will help to keep your 4th of July fun.

Keep The Smells From Luring Pests In

• All bugs and wildlife are drawn in by smells of food; that is why it is important to keep all of your BBQ foods in sealed bags or containers until you're ready to prepare them or consume them.

• When you're done eating, dispose of your plate, utensils, and food remnants in a sealed container. This will keep the smells in and the pests away.

• Some of the smells that lure pests to a BBQ only smell like food, while others do not smell like food at all. Stinging pests are lured in by sweet smells. If you wear cologne or perfume to your BBQ, you may be attracting these stinging pests without even knowing it.

• Sweet liquid draws pests as well. Consider using cups that have a lid and a straw. This will reduce curious pests.

Keep Pests From Climbing Up

Ants are one of the most common picnic pests. If you plan to be eating or preparing food on an outdoor table, consider putting pie plates under the legs of the table and fill those plates with water. That little moat will keep the crawling pests at bay.

Blow Those Bugs Away

Some flying pests can be deterred with a good breeze. If there is no breeze in your backyard cookout area, create one. A few fans placed strategically on your deck or near your pool can make a big difference.

Insect Repellent

We all know that repellent can help to keep the mosquitoes away but do you know that repellent is great for resisting other picnic pests? Spray some repellent on your feet and legs to keep ticks, fire ants, fleas and other biting pests from making a meal out of your ankles and legs while you enjoying your 4th of July meal.

Pick The Right Spot

If you'll be going somewhere away from home, be sure to pick a spot that is well maintained and far away from trash receptacles. It is also a good idea to avoid locations that are near wetlands or marshes. That will reduce mosquito bites.

For 4th of July backyard BBQs, it also a great idea to have a professional do an inspection and treat your yard for mosquitoes, ticks, fire ants, spiders, and other pests that can ruin any outdoor gathering. If you need assistance, or just need a few questions answered, don't hesitate to reach out to us. The experts here at All-American are glad to help, we have many residential pest control options to choose from.