A pest-free summer is no problem

Take back your summer fun from those pesky insects. Rather than enjoying backyard barbecues, poolside picnics and other outdoor summer activities, homeowners are being chased indoors as pests put a stinger in summer fun.

"The backyard picnic becomes a battleground of stinging, biting and swatting between guests and unwanted mosquitoes, flies, ants and spiders," said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs for the nonprofit National Pest Management Association. "Summer pests are not only annoying but also threaten our health and property."

The association recommends these tips to help homeowners alleviate the problems of summer pests.

•Eliminate standing water and other sources of moisture in or around the home.

•Keep tree branches and other plants cut back from the house.

•Make sure there are no cracks or small openings around the house.

•Make sure firewood and building materials are not stored next to the home.

•Move food indoors or under screened tents during outdoor gatherings.

•Check yourself and pets regularly for ticks.

For bigger problems, homeowners may need to turn to a professional.

"A pest professional will save you time and money in the long run. They will be able to use an integrated pest management approach to inspect, treat and keep summer pests at bay by eliminating their food, water and shelter source," said Mannes.

To learn more about common summer pests, visit www.pestworld.org.

This story is provided by State Point Media