Wasps, Ticks, Mosquitoes, and Bees Oh My!

As the humidity ticks up, summer pests become a big problem in South Carolina. Aside from hiring a reputable South Carolina pest control company, it’s important to know and be able to identify some of the summer’s most dangerous pests. In this post we feature three pesky pests to stay away from this summer.

Wasps & Bees
Stinging insects such as wasps and bees are pests that most of us are used to in South Carolina. They love to make their appearances known at pools, cookouts, and sporting events. These summer pests should be taken seriously as they are dangerous to those who are allergic. They're also known to swarm and sting when agitated.

Prevention:

• Seek out medical attention when stung, especially if you are allergic.


• Check to make sure that your home has screens on all doors and windows.


• Keep trash cans covered and empty garbage frequently.


• Paint or stain untreated wood..


• Seed grassy areas to prevent bare spots where some stinging insects will nest.


• Hire a professional South Carolina pest control company if the pests become too much to handle.


• Wear shoes when possible.


 

 

Ticks
Ticks are always a problem when spending time outdoors each summer. This summer, there seems to be an unusually high number of ticks in South Carolina. The most dangerous tick that plagues South Carolina is the blacklegged deer tick. This tick can transmit Lyme disease to both pets and humans.

Prevention:

• If you are spending significant time in the woods always wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and shoes..


• Stay away from vegetation when hiking.


• Cut your lawn short to remove weeds and prevent ticks.


• Get rid of any wood piles or debris that can attract ticks to your home.


• Wear a bug spray with at least 20% DEET when spending time outside.


• Wear light-colored clothing if possible.


 

 

Mosquitoes
Many people may think of mosquitoes as merely pests, but they can actually be quite dangerous to your health. While the bites can leave itchy spots on your skin, the diseases that they carry can be much worse than a pesky bite. In fact, mosquitoes have been known to carry a variety of illnesses including West Nile virus, yellow fever, dengue, malaria, and encephalitis.

Prevention

• Try to avoid being outside at dusk or dawn when mosquitoes are known to be the most active.


• Use an insect repellent with DEET and re-apply as necessary.


• Eliminate any standing water on your property as this is where mosquitoes lay their eggs.


• Repair or replace any screens that are torn on windows and doors.


 

 

As you can see, summer pest control in South Carolina can be tough. If you would like some assistance in getting rid of pests in and around your home, give Thompson Brothers Exterminating, the South Carolina pest control leaders a call at 864.578.8822.