Mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous pests to grace the summer and fall seasons. Not only are they vectors for numerous diseases, but they can also transmit parasites to your pets. Managing mosquitoes requires diligent pest control -- in addition to some careful managing of your environment.

Remove Water Outside of Your Home

If you have water features that you rarely run, you should empty them out. Any area that can potentially collect still water should be modified so that the water properly drains. After rain fall you should check to make sure there aren't any puddles. Mosquitoes require still water in order to breed and they will look for areas of still water. Within just a few weeks you could find your yard infested.

Use Natural Remedies

Citronella candles are one of the easiest and most effective ways to ward off mosquitoes. They're sold in most outdoor stores and they can also be made rather easily at home by melting citronella oil together with wax. Lavender is also known to repel mosquitoes, as is garlic, neem oil, and rosemary. If you have a natural or green household, you can attempt some of these natural remedies. They are especially effective in candle form as they can disperse throughout the air. 

Treat Your Family and Pets

Before you go outside, always apply an insect repellent. This is especially important for children and pregnant women. Pets should be given medication to protect not only against mosquitoes but also heartworm disease, which is spread by mosquitoes. Even if your household is protected, there can still be the occasional mosquito around. Treating your family and pets will protect yourself from the occasional stray.

Put Out a Bird Feeder

Mosquitoes aren't preyed upon by any insect, but they are commonly eaten by birds. If you want to reduce the general insect population around your home, you can put out a bird feeder. This will attract birds into your yard, which will then snatch up your mosquitoes -- and it'll have an additional effect of making your yard more pleasant and helping out the local ecosystem. Just make sure in advance there aren't any neighborhood cats that stalk the area.

If you have a mosquito infestation around your home, it's in your best interest to contact a pest control services, like ASE Pest & Weed Supplies, as soon as possible. Mosquitoes are more dangerous than they can at first appear; they aren't just nuisances, they carry serious diseases.