With summer around the corner, many people across New England are firing up the grill and having a backyard barbecue! Most of us know about the standard safety tips, like fire and grill safety, but there are some potential pest hazards you should keep in mind as well. The last thing anybody wants is an insect sting or contaminated food. We’ve got you covered with some tips on how to keep bugs away at a barbecue.
Mosquitoes
- Apply an insect repellent, preferably one with picaridin or at least 20% DEET.
- Eliminate standing water sources, like birdbaths or wading pools. These can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other disease-spreading insects.
- Clean out any leaves or debris from your drains and gutters. This is a commonly overlooked source of standing water that can breed pests.
Wasps & Bees
- Check the area for any signs of nests. They are often found in the corners of windows, in soffit areas as well as underneath decks and porches.
- Keep beverages and sauces covered so as not to attract wasps or bees to the grilling area. If you see an active nest, consider contacting your local pest professional for help removing it.
- Clean up any spills, as wasps and bees are attracted to sugary liquids.
- Avoid wearing fragrances or bright colors– they might think you’re a flower!
- If you do see wasps or bees, avoid swatting at them. Instead, “put the BBQ sauce down” and walk away calmly in a straight line.
- Provide clear plastic cups to your guests instead of just cans. It’s easy for a bee or wasp to enter a can and go unnoticed until…Yikes! Nobody wants to swallow a bee!
Ants & Flies
- Keep food sanitary by using tightly sealed containers or coolers.
- Promptly clean up trash, crumbs, and spills from tables.
- Make sure outside trash is kept away from the grilling area and stored in containers with lids.
- And yes, when it comes to flies, it’s a good idea to check your yard and clean up after your pets.
- Lastly, when a fly lands on your food, as tempting as it might be to eat it, don’t! Research shows they leave a lot of bacteria on food.
While you’re at the grill perfecting your steaks this summer, don’t forget to practice these pest prevention tips on how to keep bugs away at a barbecue. We utilize IPM and work with you to craft some pest solutions for your home. Our team at Graduate Pest Solutions specializes in prevention. Call us at 413-566-8222 or contact us with any questions or if you are experiencing a pest problem. We have the knowledge and service necessary to help keep your home and workplace pest-free!
