The weather is warm, and the grill is hot, which can only mean one thing: it’s time for a backyard BBQ! But before you fire up the grill, you should do a few things to make sure your party is pest-free. If your backyard has a high-level of pest infestation issue, it is best to hire a pest control expert. If the problem isn’t much, you may follow these tips, and you’ll be able to enjoy a fun and safe BBQ with friends and family.
Clean Up Your Yard
One of the best ways to prevent pests from crashing your party is to clean up your yard before the event. This means eliminating any food or water sources that might attract them. Pick up any fallen fruit from trees, empty any standing water, and trim back any overgrown plants. Doing this will help deter pests like mosquitoes, ants, and rodents.
Keep Food Covered
Another way to deter pests is to keep your food covered as much as possible. This will prevent them from being able to smell or see what you’re cooking. Use tightly sealed containers or plastic wrap to cover any food that isn’t currently being cooked or served. And be sure to keep all food away from the edge of the table so that pests can’t easily access it.
Use Citronella Candles
Citronella candles are a great way to keep pesky mosquitoes away from your party guests. They work by releasing a strong scent that repels mosquitoes but is still pleasant for humans. Be sure to place candles around the perimeter of your yard and light them a few hours before the event is set to begin.
Get Rid of Standing Water
Standing water is one of the main attractants for mosquitoes, so it’s essential to get rid of any sources of standing water on your property. This includes things like birdbaths, kid’s pools, and even puddles formed after a rainstorm. If you can’t empty the water, cover it so that mosquitoes can’t get in.
Keep Trash Cans Sealed Tight
Trash cans are another common attractant for pests, so keeping them sealed tight is essential. Be sure to put a lid on any trash cans or dumpsters on your property. And if you have any recycling bins, be sure to keep them covered. Again, pests will be attracted to the food and water in these containers, so it’s essential to keep them sealed off.
These are just a few of the many things you can do to prevent pests from crashing your backyard BBQ. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a fun and safe event with family and friends.
We all know that summertime is the best time to enjoy our backyards, but if you’re constantly running into problems with pests this year, then it might be worth looking into professional help. Experts will identify what’s causing your infestation and determine which treatment option works best for both humans and animals! If you’re unsure about getting started, contact your local cooperative extension office for more information.
