Hurricane season in the U.S. runs from June through November, often leaving behind more than just visible destruction. While broken roofs, siding, and windows are obvious signs of damage, hurricanes also create conditions where pests can thrive. As part of hurricane safety, addressing these issues early is key.Stagnant flood water left after the storm becomes a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Rodents, too, may move in, using damaged areas of your home for shelter. If these threats aren’t handled quickly, they can turn into large-scale infestations.That’s why pest control should be a top priority in any post-hurricane recovery plan. Timely action safeguards your home and protects public health. Explore our post-hurricane resources for immediate steps you can take.
What to Do After a Hurricane
In the aftermath of a hurricane, pooling water and storm damage create ideal conditions for pests such as mosquitoes and rodents. Not only do they carry diseases, but rodents can also inflict structural damage to your home. Flooded zones often hide fire ants, which cluster into floating mounds and sting when threatened.Protect yourself and your property by reviewing these essential post-hurricane tips:
Preventing Mosquitoes in the Wake of a Hurricane
Remove Water: Get rid of any standing water on your property, checking spots like buckets, tarps, tires, and lawn equipment where water can collect.
Improve Drainage: Keep water moving freely through gutters, flower pots, ditches, and storm drains to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.
Use Repellent: Protect exposed skin with EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Dress Safely: During cleanup, wear long sleeves, pants, closed-toe shoes, and light-colored clothing to lower your chances of mosquito bites.
Avoid Peak Times: Stay indoors as much as possible during dawn and dusk, when mosquito activity and bite risk are at their highest.
Avoiding Pest Infestations Following a Storm
Seal Damage: Repair structural problems promptly and close any holes or gaps to prevent pests from getting inside.
Dry Out: Remove excess moisture indoors by discarding soaked carpets, rugs, and furniture to reduce the risk of mold and pest activity.
Clear Debris: Clear away leaves, branches, and fallen trees from your yard, as they can serve as hiding spots and breeding areas for pests.
Unclog Gutters: Keep gutters and storm drains clear to avoid standing water that attracts insects and other pests.
Manage Waste: Maintain clean trash bins and store them away from your home to reduce pest attraction.
What You Need to Know About Food Safety Post-Hurricane
Flooded Produce: Do not eat any fruits, vegetables, or unpackaged foods that have been in contact with floodwaters.
Contaminated Gardens: Avoid consuming produce from gardens that have been touched by floodwaters.
Damaged Cans: Throw away canned goods with bulging sides, dented seams, or visible swelling.
Unsafe Cans: Steer clear of cans with snap tops, pull tops, or any home-canned products, as they may pose safety risks.
Spoiled Refrigeration: Discard all perishable items from your refrigerator if it lost power during the storm.
Thawed Frozen Items: Never eat frozen foods that have thawed above 41°F or stayed thawed for more than four hours.
Boxed Goods: Get rid of dry packaged foods such as cereal, flour, and pasta, even if they look dry, if they were exposed to flood conditions.
Discard Porous Items: Dispose of items that can’t be fully disinfected, including wooden cutting boards, baby bottle nipples, and paper products.
Sanitize Surfaces: Clean and disinfect all dishes, utensils, and any surfaces that come into contact with food before using them.
Can Hurricanes Increase Mosquito-Borne Disease Risks?
Hurricane damage often leaves behind the perfect environment for mosquito breeding. Floodwaters collect in yards, streets, and debris, creating prime spots for mosquitoes to lay their eggs. Although the storm wipes out many adult mosquitoes, the stagnant water awakens dormant eggs, sparking a new wave of insect activity. Within seven to ten days after a hurricane, these pests begin to reappear in force.Once they hatch, female mosquitoes quickly seek blood meals to fuel reproduction. Without timely mosquito control efforts, their numbers can multiply rapidly, raising the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus, Zika, and dengue.Communities recovering from a storm must act fast. Early intervention with mosquito control measures can help reduce populations, protect public health, and make the recovery period safer for residents and relief workers alike.
Controlling Mosquitoes to Keep Communities Safe
Mosquito-borne illnesses are a persistent concern in , regardless of the time of year or events like hurricanes. Throughout hurricane recovery, it is crucial to maintain consistent mosquito control and surveillance to keep these risks in check. Working with professionals like Arrow Environmental Services helps the city implement focused strategies against diseases such as West Nile, Zika, and dengue. Protecting public health requires ongoing, community-wide cooperation.In the event of a hurricane, we’re committed to helping our customers and neighbors through every step. Contact Arrow Environmental Services for trusted support and guidance.
Living in a warm climate is ideal for outdoor activities, but it also provides the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses. But what does this mean, and how can you safeguard your health?As residents of know, mosquitoes aren't just a backyard nuisance, they carry and transmit diseases.
What You Should Know About Malaria
Malaria is a disease that spreads to people through mosquito bites. In the beginning stages, it often feels like having the flu with symptoms such as shivering, muscle pain, nausea, and fatigue. Most people start experiencing symptoms within four weeks after getting bitten by a mosquito carrying the infection. However, some people may not get sick until much later, even up to a year after they were first infected. If left untreated, it can lead to severe problems like kidney failure, seizures, and other serious conditions. And if you think you might have malaria, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help for a diagnosis and treatment.
Why Are the Recent Malaria Cases Important?
There were locally transmitted cases of mosquito-borne malaria in Florida in September 2023. These recent malaria cases are significant because they mark the first locally transmitted cases in the United States since 2003. For the past 20 years, almost all cases of malaria in the US have been linked to individuals who recently traveled to regions where malaria is more common. Although the current outbreak is not widespread, it’s crucial to contain the disease before it can pose a greater threat within the United States.
How Does Malaria Spread?
Despite common misconceptions, malaria cannot be passed from one person to another. It can only be transmitted through mosquitoes that carry the infection. This is why one of the most effective ways to prevent the disease is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes.
What Is Dengue and How Does it Spread?
Dengue fever is a significant threat in tropical and subtropical climates like Florida. It’s often characterized by high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint pain, and rash. The Aedes aegypti mosquito, a common visitor to our area, transmits Dengue. Preventing mosquito bites and eliminating breeding grounds are vital steps in controlling the spread of dengue. Regular mosquito control treatments can reduce the population of these dangerous pests in your surroundings.Dengue is transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are daytime feeders, making daily outdoor activities a potential risk for exposure.
Why Are the Recent Dengue Cases Important?
Dengue fever has seen a resurgence in tropical and subtropical regions, including Florida. It's important to recognize the significance of these outbreaks, as dengue can lead to severe flu-like symptoms and, in rare cases, a life-threatening hemorrhagic fever.
What Is West Nile Virus?
West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the United States. It is primarily spread by the Culex mosquito. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not feel sick, but it can cause severe symptoms and even neurological diseases in others. Reducing mosquito breeding sites and having regular pest control treatments are effective ways to minimize the risk of West Nile virus in your community.
Why Are the Recent West Nile Virus Cases Important?
West Nile virus is currently one of the leading causes of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. Most people infected do not feel sick, but it can cause severe and sometimes more serious illnesses in others.
How Does West Nile Virus Spread?
West Nile virus spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds and can then spread the virus to other animals and humans.
Tips for Preventing Mosquito-Borne Diseases
It might feel challenging to avoid mosquitoes, especially during the summertime here in Florida. However, there are several actions you can take to shield yourself from mosquito bites:
Reduce mosquito populations in your surroundings: By minimizing the number of mosquitoes in your area, you can decrease your chances of getting bitten. Since mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, start by getting rid of even the tiniest puddles in your yard. Check areas like gutters, playground equipment, landscaping features, upturned buckets, and any spots where water might accumulate.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants: While some mosquitoes can bite through clothing, wearing protective garments can make it more difficult for them to reach your skin.
Avoid going out at dawn and dusk: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Staying indoors during these times can help you steer clear of large mosquito swarms and reduce the likelihood of being bitten.
Use mosquito netting and check your screens: Prevent mosquitoes from buzzing around your home by repairing any holes in your door and window screens. Consider sleeping under a mosquito net for added protection. You can also use mosquito netting to cover your porch, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about bites.
Apply an EPA-registered repellent: The Environmental Protection Agency provides a list of registered products that can effectively repel mosquitoes and other pests. Visit their website to find the right repellent for your needs and learn how to apply it safely.
Avoid ineffective DIY methods: There are numerous tips and tricks on the Internet that claim to repel mosquitoes, but many of them are not worth the time, effort, or money—and some may even backfire. Check out our other blog to learn about mosquito prevention tips that are not effective.
Reduce Chances of a Mosquito-Borne Illness with Professional Pest Control
Are you facing mosquito troubles on your property? Feeling overwhelmed with mosquito prevention and need assistance to get started? Look no further! The knowledgeable team at is here to help. Our state-licensed mosquito control professionals have been proudly serving homes and businesses in since . We offer comprehensive mosquito control services that are based on Integrated Pest Management techniques for long-lasting results.With our expertise, we will develop a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for your space and lifestyle requirements. Say goodbye to mosquitoes on your property and give us a call today!
Lately, Dengue fever has stirred up considerable attention, sparking debates about its potential spread to the United States. If you're residing in Florida and the thought of Dengue fever nearing your neighborhood has you on edge, here's a comforting update: the chances are significantly slim.Understanding the concern, we've compiled this article to equip you with vital knowledge about Dengue fever and its transmission methods.
How Is Dengue Fever Transmitted?
Contrary to some misconceptions, Dengue fever cannot be passed from one person to another directly. The disease is spread through the bites of Aedes mosquitoes that have bitten an infected individual, making them carriers. This creates a cycle of transmission in areas where Dengue is prevalent, highlighting the importance of controlling mosquito populations.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a significant health concern in over 100 countries, including parts of Africa, the Americas, the Eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Annually, between 100 to 400 million people are infected with the virus. While many do not show symptoms, severe cases of Dengue can occur, leading to serious illness in around 500,000 individuals and resulting in approximately 40,000 deaths each year.Symptoms of Dengue fever include:
High fever
Severe headache
Pain behind the eyes
Joint and muscle pain
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Skin rash, which appears two to five days after the onset of fever
Mild bleeding (such as nose bleed, bleeding gums, or easy bruising)
Should You Be Concerned About Dengue Fever?
In the United States, and particularly in Florida, the probability of contracting Dengue fever remains very low. To put it into perspective, it's less likely than winning the lottery. In 2023, Florida reported two cases of locally transmitted Dengue, emphasizing the rarity but possible presence of the disease.These occurrences remind us that diseases carried by mosquitoes can spread to new areas. Theories abound as to why Dengue is appearing in previously unaffected regions. For up-to-date information, the CDC's tracking of Dengue fever cases in the U.S. is a reliable resource.
Mosquito Control Experts in Florida
While Dengue fever is a remote possibility in Florida, concerns over mosquito presence are valid. For effective mosquito control services, Arrow Environmental Services is here to assist. Our expertise in managing mosquito populations offers you peace of mind, safeguarding your home and community against mosquito-related threats.
Living in , with its humidity and proximity to water, means mosquitoes are a common annoyance. These pesky insects can disrupt our outdoor activities, buzzing around our faces and leaving us with itchy bites. However, it seems that some individuals are more prone to mosquito bites than others. If they’re biting you more than others, it could be because of several factors such as your breathing, skin bacteria, scent, and clothing.Recent research has begun shedding light on the answer to this age-old question: why do mosquitoes like to bite some people more than others?
What attracts mosquitoes to me?
Several factors could be making you a prime target, including your breathing patterns releasing carbon dioxide. The more CO2 you produce, the more attractive you become to mosquitoes.Your skin's natural chemistry also plays a crucial role. The bacteria on your skin create various scents, and some are more appealing to mosquitoes.Mosquitoes are more drawn to dark clothing than to light colors because they rely on both sight and scent to find their targets.
Why do mosquitoes like some people more than others?
We've all experienced those summer evenings where one person becomes a mosquito magnet while others remain virtually untouched. There is a science behind this! Research shows that mosquitoes combine various sensory cues to locate their targets.Your body chemistry makes a unique "scent signature," which mosquitoes can smell from 100 feet away. This signature is influenced by your genetics, diet, blood type, and even the bacteria living on your skin. Some people make more compounds like lactic acid, uric acid, and ammonia. Mosquitoes love these scents.
The Role of Scent in Mosquito Attraction
Scientists have long been intrigued by the varying susceptibility of individuals to mosquito bites. A recent study conducted in Zambia has provided some insights into this phenomenon. Researchers created an environment to observe mosquito behavior when exposed to the scents of six sleeping individuals.Surprisingly, the mosquitoes were not solely attracted by body heat and carbon dioxide emissions. Instead, they exhibited a preference for the smell of carboxylic acid. Certain individuals in the study emitted scents that repelled the mosquitoes, while others seemed more appealing.
What to Do If You’re Bitten
Despite taking precautions, mosquito bites can still occur. If you find yourself with mosquito bites, there are a few simple remedies you can try.
Wash the area with soap and water before applying any ointment or treatment options.
Applying an ice cube to the affected area can provide relief and reduce swelling. Apply gentle pressure for several seconds for relief.
Certain creams and lotions, such as calamine lotions or those containing antihistamines, to alleviate itching and discomfort.
Be aware of the mosquito bites that you have and watch for signs of infection and other mosquito-borne diseases. Be aware if the mosquito bite turns red, feels warm, or has a red streak spreading out from it. If you have complications, seek out a healthcare professional.
How to Keep Mosquitoes Attractants Away
One of the things mosquitoes are attracted to is water. As a result, properties near water sources often draw them in. To make your backyard barbecues and chores more enjoyable, it’s essential to eliminate these water sources as much as possible:
Regularly empty swimming pools and water toys.
Bring in outdoor equipment from rainstorms, as they can collect water.
Keep rain gutters free of debris that can trap water.
Another effective measure is to keep your grass short. Mosquitoes tend to seek shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. By regularly trimming your grass and shrubbery, you can reduce the number of mosquitoes on your property.If you’re spending time outdoors, wear longer clothing to minimize exposed skin. If this isn’t practical, always remember to apply mosquito repellent. Look for products containing DEET, which effectively deters these pests.
Professional Mosquito Control with
For a long-lasting solution to mosquito problems, trust the professionals at . Our highly trained technicians possess the necessary equipment and expertise to effectively eliminate mosquito infestations. Our mosquito reduction program starts with:
A thorough evaluation of mosquito sources around your home.
Treat all mosquito resting and breeding areas. Reducing and repelling mosquitoes at every life stage.
One-time treatments or continual services are offered.
So, whether you’re planning a backyard gathering or simply enjoying the outdoors, be prepared to keep those bothersome mosquitoes at bay. Since 1958, has been utilizing innovative and safe pest control methods in the state of . Schedule your services today to start living a pest-free life!
