TNT-5 June 2020

Ask The Expert Scott Svenheim, ACE
The Heat is On…
Sounds like a song lyric, right?
Undoubtedly, the heat of Summer is upon us, and hopefully along with that, an end to COVID-19 socially
distant separations, so we can all enjoy backyard gatherings, and poolside barbecues again. Not to
mention the summertime critters that have camped out behind the scenes and are eagerly awaiting any
opportunity to spoil our customer's festivities.
The last thing we want is for them to have to deal with a yard overrun by ants, lies, or mosquitoes, and
let's not forget some stinging insects like bees or wasps. According to the National Pest Management
Association, stinging insects send more than a half-million people to the emergency room each year.
While ants, yellow jackets and lies are quickly drawn to most barbecue fare, we all know that mosquitos
are attracted to our customers and us as the main course. Ants and lies are not picky eaters and will try
to snatch up any food. Bees are generally more curious about the sweet stuff, while wasps and yellow
jackets love the smell and taste of meat and anything sugary.
Of course, the contamination factor also plays a role here – ants easily contaminate food, along with
houselies, which are known to carry hundreds of disease-ridden germs. Because insect populations are
at their peak during this time of year, keep in mind that insects are especially active in the second half of
summer when colonies are most likely building up their winter supply of food.
Let's help educate our customers on the practices we know best, like:
- Thoroughly checking the yard for stagnant pools of water, removing any standing
water, which could provide breeding areas for mosquitoes.
- Checking all screen doors and window screens for rips or tears and repair
any holes.
- As the family ilters in and out of the house, make sure everyone is
fully closing the doors behind them.
- Avoid using scented candles or wearing fragrances that easily
attract bees and wasps.
- Keeping food sealed in tight-itting containers, or outside,
in sealed coolers as much as possible.
Ask the Expert
- Monitor for crumbs, spills, and trash on tables -
Clean-up areas afterward.
- Keeping trash containers tightly sealed and away
from the activity areas.
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