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May 24, 2017

Customer Outdoor Checklist for Memorial Day Weekend

 

 

  1. Instruct customers to wear loose fitting long sleeves and long trousers. Yes, even in the summer! Clothing covering the skin gives one more layer of protection. Plus, this allows insect repellent to be applied on clothing rather than directly on the skin, limiting exposure concerns.
  2. Encourage the removal of standing water. These insects need water to complete their life cycle. By removing places for them to lay eggs and develop, you can stop them from using the property to breed.
  3. Increase wind or air movement. Mosquitoes don’t fly or locate potential hosts well when wind speeds are greater than ~10 MPH. A simple electric fan can provide winds that exceed these speeds.
  4. Educate them to avoid being outdoors when they are most active. Most species of mosquitoes feed at dusk and dawn, so avoiding outdoor activities during this time can help avoid bites.
  5. Avoid wearing dark colors. Numerous studies have shown that these insects are attracted to dark colors more than light colors. Fabric can make a difference, too. Shiny fabrics, such as satin or silk, are more attractive than matte ones, such as cotton.
  6. Use insect repellent. EPA-approved Insect repellents, especially ones containing DEET are extremely effective at keeping mosquitoes from biting.

Janis Reed, Ph.D., BCE

Director Product Development & Regulatory

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