End of Summer Isn't the End of Pests

Guest Column by Clint Miller, NCPMA Board Member 

We’re in the last few weeks of summer. 

People are taking vacations. Kids, teachers and parents have headed back to school. And certain pests are starting to show up.

That’s right, the end of summer is the beginning of busy season for certain pests.  Right now, we’re seeing the emergence of yellow jackets and fire ants while still battling mosquitoes and ticks.  All of these pests can pose real health hazards to you and your family.  Yellow jackets and fire ants can cause painful stings and bites while mosquitoes and ticks are known to carry dangerous diseases.

There are things you can do to stop these from becoming a problem around your house.

• Take away the food: Yellow jackets are in search of food and like sweet things. Keep yellow jackets from becoming a problem by taking away their food sources. Don’t leave sugary or sweet items unattended outside and keep outside garbage cans sealed.
• Beware of the nests: Fire ants and yellow jackets build nests. Fire ant nests look like mounds of dirt and can be found near sidewalks, driveways and in yards.  Yellow jacket nests can be anywhere. But don’t attempt to remove them yourself! If you suspect a nest of either pest, contact a pest professional to help you determine the best treatment.
• No standing water: Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.  Always dump any standing water from toys and other outdoor features to keep mosquitoes from breeding. 
• Treat your yard: Talk to a pest professional about having your yard treated for mosquitoes and ticks. 

And just remember. Fall is just around the corner. Pretty soon, we’ll be enjoying cooler temperatures!

--Clint Miller is the Region Two Director for NCPMA and the owner of Clint Miller Exterminating in Mount Pleasant