We are nearing the heart of summertime in sunny Arizona, and with these longer days and extended evenings come plenty of opportunities for spending time outdoors. Now is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy a barbeque or picnic with family and friends. We can already smell the goods of the grill and see the fireworks in the sky, but with the joys of outdoor entertaining also come the pesky critters.

Just like us, pests are attracted to the savory smells of outdoor cooking, and before you know it, they can cause quite a problem. Besides pesky mosquitos, we also need to watch out for bees, wasps, and of course, ants. These little creatures can cause any number of health risks, from bites and stings to a greater allergic reaction. Here are a few chemical-free ways to ensure that your next outdoor gathering is free from unwanted pests:

Our first suggestion is to keep the air moving. Utilize a small box fan around your grill and seating areas to shoo away unwanted pests. Bugs hate the breeze and will steer clear of the area.

A simple way to prevent mosquitos and other pests from even arriving in the first place is to replace your outdoor lights with yellow “bug” lights. Bugs are less likely to find these lights attractive and might think twice about invading your party. An ounce of prevention!

Another chemical-free way to keep mosquitos at bay is to use citronella candles in your entertaining space. In addition to providing beautiful outdoor lighting, the oil in citronella candles repels mosquitos within a 5-foot radius. With candles, you get two solutions for the price of one!

To keep ants away from eating areas, simply sprinkle a border of cornstarch or baby powder around the perimeter of your picnic area. Ants dislike these substances and won’t cross your drawn line.

Our last tip utilizes a beverage that you might have readily on hand for any outdoor gathering; red wine! Pour a small amount of red wine into a cup and place it away from your guests and grill. The liquid will attract lingering fruit flies and keep them away from the party.

Of course, these are temporary fixes aimed at alleviating pests for outdoor entertaining, but in order to maintain a truly pest free environment year round, it is important to enlist the help of a licensed, professional pest control company. Pest’R Us Exterminating can treat your home and yard to prevent such pests as ants, and help make your next gathering pest free. With our help, you can enjoy your outdoor summer events, and even go barefoot in the backyard!

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