Weathering the Storm: Tips to Keep Pests at Bay in Extreme Conditions

The National Pest Management Association is preparing consumers with pest prevention tips ahead of the extreme weather season 

FAIRFAX, Va. (July 22, 2024) – We’re in the thick of summer and regions across the United States are beginning to experience record-breaking temperatures and periods of heavy rainfall. To help consumers protect themselves and their properties, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is spreading awareness about the types of pests to watch out for during extreme weather conditions. 

 

“Summer already marks the peak pest season, and extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves and heavy rain further enhance the ideal environments for pest populations to thrive,” said Dr. Jim Fredericks, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for NPMA. “Even hot and dry conditions can lead to concentrations of mosquitoes that prefer to breed in containers, because areas around homes are more likely to have standing water because of human activity.” 

As these weather conditions begin to ramp up, NPMA has tips to avoid these pests and the risks they pose: 

  • Stinging Insects: To reduce your risk of being stung, avoid wearing sweet-smelling perfumes that may attract these insects and keep food and drinks covered when dining outside. Regularly inspect your property for nests and keep a safe distance from areas of known activity. 

  • Mosquitoes: Remove areas of standing water from around your home and use insect repellent containing DEET or another EPA-registered ingredient. 

  • Ticks: Keep the grassy areas around your home maintained, use insect repellent containing at least 20% DEET or another EPA-registered ingredient, thoroughly inspect yourself for ticks after spending time outdoors, and learn the steps to properly remove a tick. 

“During this time of year, stinging insects, mosquitoes, and ticks pose an increased threat due to extreme weather conditions many of us are experiencing. If not properly managed, they can cause significant problems for you and your property,” explained Dr. Fredericks. “It’s vital that you contact a pest control professional if you’re experiencing an infestation.” For more information about pest prevention, visit PestWorld.org.   

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About the National Pest Management Association

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 5,500 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, TikTok and YouTube.