Summer is here, and while it’s the perfect time for kids to play outside, it’s also prime season for pesky insect bites. Although we can’t guarantee your child will escape the Florida summer completely bite-free, we can help lower the risk.
Here are some practical tips to keep those annoying insects at bay:
1) Eliminate Standing Water
Standing water around your home is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other biting insects. Check for and remove any water-filled buckets, toys, or puddles. By cutting off their water source, you can reduce the number of insects around your home.
2) Avoid Early Evening Playtime
Many insects, including mosquitoes, are most active during the early evening when the temperature cools down a bit. Keep your kids indoors during this time to minimize the risk of bites.
3) Dress Smartly
Dress your kids in loose, light-colored, and long-sleeved clothing. Long sleeves and pants protect the skin from both the sun and insects. Opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton to keep them cool while still providing bite-preventing coverage.
4) Secure Your Home
While it’s nice to let in the breeze, ensure windows and doors are covered with screens or mosquito netting to keep insects out. This simple measure can significantly reduce the number of bugs (biting and otherwise) inside your home.
5) Use Insect Repellent
Applying insect repellent is an effective way to prevent bites from mosquitoes and other insects. Choose a repellent suitable for your child’s age and apply it according to the instructions.
How to Treat Bug Bites on Children
Even with the best precautions, a bug bite or two is sometimes inevitable. Here are some tips to relieve your child’s discomfort if they do get bitten:
Cover the Bites: Use clothing to prevent scratching.
Clean the Bites: Wash the affected area with soap and water.
Cool Compress: Apply a cool washcloth to reduce swelling and itching.
Steroid Cream: Use hydrocortisone cream (0.5% or 1%) for a few days.
Oral Antihistamine: For significant itching, consider using Children’s Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or Children’s Zyrtec (cetirizine).
Call in the Professionals
While these tips can help, the best way to protect your home and family from pests is to call in the Florida pest control professionals. Gato Guard’s expert pest control services can create a barrier around your home, ensuring your kids can enjoy their summer playtime without the constant worry of insect bites.
Contact Gato Guard today to safeguard you, your home, and your family from pesky biting pests!