Health Equity

As we spend time outside this summer, Fidelis Care is sharing ways to help enjoy pest-free outdoor living.

1. Use insect repellent. Ticks and mosquitoes carry diseases and can cause serious health risks. Apply insect repellent to your skin and clothing to lower your risk.
2. Remove or avoid standing water. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water. Lower your chances of being bitten by removing standing water (birdbaths, ponds, and planters) from your backyard.
3. Keep grass short. Mosquitoes and ticks like overgrown grass. Clear away leaf piles and fallen branches. Keeping grass short can help prevent mosquitoes and ticks from living in your yard.
4. Keep your patio and outdoor space clean. Insects are attracted to food crumbs or spilled liquids.
5. Wear protective clothing. Consider wearing long sleeves, pants, and/or high socks to reduce the risk of tick and mosquito bites.
6. Check for ticks. After time outdoors, check your body for ticks. If you have pets, check them too!

What Are Pesticides?

Pesticides can be helpful, but they must be used safely. Pesticides can be harmful to people and pets if used incorrectly. Follow these safety tips from the New York State Department of Health:

• Keep pesticides away from children and pets. Check the label for any special storage requirements.
• Keep children and pets away from areas where pesticides have been recently applied. Use signs to keep people away from the treated area.
• See if there is an alternative solution to pesticides. There may be a less harmful solution.
• Always follow the instructions on the pesticide label. See what protective equipment is needed and wear it. Pesticides may cause breathing problems, skin irritation, or chemical burns.
• If possible, hire a professional pest control company. They will use pesticides safely and appropriately.

Follow these tips to help keep pests away from your outdoor spaces. We hope you have a healthy, happy summer!