Increase in Pest Pressure Can Spoil the Season’s Festivities

Image courtesy of Chattanooga Real Estate Today

The countdown begins to July 4th weekend! 

A weekend to celebrate independence with fireworks, food, festivities, friends and family, Craig Thomas Pest Control and the National Pest Management Association offer advice for bug-free barbeque's.


June 30, 2010 (Fairfax, Va.) – Barbeque's can be a source of seasonal fun, but not when pests crash the party. Ants, flies and stinging insects are prevalent in the late summer and early fall and although often considered a mere annoyance to party goers, these pests can also bite, sting, carry diseases and contaminate food.


“Outdoor events can be tricky enough to plan for due to uncooperative weather and other unpredictable elements. Pest predicaments should not be another worry,” said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for NPMA. “More than just a nuisance, these pests can leave painful bites and transmit diseases, which should compel homeowners to take an active role in their prevention.”


NPMA recommends taking these precautions to discourage unwanted pests from spoiling barbeque fun:
• Ants and flies are attracted to typical barbeque fare. Serve food and beverages indoors, and reserve outdoor space for eating and entertaining. Keep food sealed in containers or covered whenever possible, and wipe tabletops frequently. Bring utensils and dishware indoors shortly after the meal. Dispose of trash in closed garbage containers and keep receptacles a good distance from where guests are gathered.
• Mosquitoes feed on blood, causing painful bite marks and sometimes carrying diseases such as Malaria and West Nile Virus. Remove/drain sources of standing water in the yard that could be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, including birdbaths and kiddie pools. When outside, wear insect repellent on exposed skin to prevent mosquito bites.
• Stinging insects are attracted to fragrances from candles, perfumes and even the food and drinks you serve. Provide clear cups for beverages, as soda/juice cans are good hiding spots for stinging pests.
• Properly screen doors and windows leading into the home. Remind guests to close doors when entering and exiting your home.
• If you’re concerned about an abundance of pests in your yard, contact a
Craig Thomas Pest Control, a licensed pest professional to help control the problem.

For more information on pests that can invade your barbeque,

visit Craig Thomas Pest Control or National Pest Management Association.

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The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 6,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property.

As you spend the weekend celebrating our freedom and independence, the team from Craig Thomas Pest Control wishes everyone a safe and happy 4th of July. Happy Birthday America!

Make Memorial Day & Summertime more enjoyable!

As the grills heat up, splashing in the pool begins and the temperatures rise, we know summer is here! This weekend, Memorial Day officially kicks off the summer season! Everyone from Craig Thomas Pest Control commemorate all U.S. men and women to have died while in military service.

While you enjoy Memorial Day with family and friends, the following steps can prevent and avoid pesky critters from invading your gatherings…
• Keep all meat products, plates and utensils covered tightly until the food is ready for grilling.
• Remove all sources of standing/stagnant water near your home. Flies and mosquitoes find water as breeding sources.
• Keep bird baths clean and refresh water weekly.
• Keep gutters and drain clean and debris free.
• Avoid over watering your yard; this will help save water too!
• Remove dog and cat droppings from yard.
• Keep trashcans and recycle bins clean, covered and away from hang out areas.
• A fan blowing over cooking, prep and eating surfaces will help reduce fly populations.
• A simple change of light bulbs from white to yellow will reduce the number of spiders and flies.
• Keep screens in good repair and make sure all windows have screens!



How to stay insect safe this summer…
• Encourage children to let you know if they see bees, hornets or other insects and their nests. Make sure they know never to touch these insects or nests.
• Examine children for ticks when they come inside for the night after playing in the yard or outdoors.
• Keep all lawn fertilizers and liquids, household cleaners, pool chemicals and gasoline out of reach of children.


The team at Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc. wishes everyone a joyous, safe and pleasant summer. We are here to assist with your pest management, structural repair and nuisance wildlife needs. Remember, if you suspect any pest activity, call before the concern becomes a major infestation.


*Information from NPMA's Summer Pest Gazettes