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How to Keep Wasps and Yellow Jackets Away from Your BBQ

There’s nothing like a summer BBQ in Pennsylvania. The smell of burgers on the grill, kids running through sprinklers, and cool drinks shared with friends. But right around the time the food hits the table, the uninvited guests start to show up: wasps and yellow jackets.
These aggressive stingers can quickly turn a fun afternoon into a mad dash for cover. For anyone allergic, even a single sting can become a serious health issue. At DeAngelo Pest Control, we hear from a lot of customers in July dealing with backyard invasions, so we’re sharing some tried-and-true tips to keep wasps and yellow jackets from ruining your summer cookouts.

Why They’re So Active Right Now

By mid-summer, yellow jackets and wasps are out in full force. Their colonies have matured, and they’re constantly foraging (especially for sugary drinks, meat, and protein). In other words, your BBQ buffet is exactly what they’re looking for. Add in open trash cans, sticky spills, and uncovered sweets, and your backyard quickly becomes prime territory for a swarm.

How to Keep Them Away

Here’s what you can do to keep your cookout comfortable, and sting-free.
1. Keep food and drinks covered.
Don’t leave food sitting out uncovered, especially meats and anything sweet. Use foil, lids, or mesh food covers, and keep drinks in closed containers or coolers.
2. Empty the trash often, and keep it sealed.
Yellow jackets are scavengers. If your trash can is overflowing or doesn’t have a tight lid, they’ll find it. Keep your garbage cans away from the dining area and empty them before and after your gathering.
3. Ditch the floral prints and perfume.
Yes, it’s summer, but try to avoid brightly colored clothing or floral patterns, which can attract curious wasps. Perfumes and scented lotions can do the same.
4. Keep the sweet stuff in check.
Wasps love sugar. If you’re serving soda, sweet tea, or dessert, be sure it’s not left out too long. Wipe down surfaces and rinse out cans or bottles before tossing them.
5. Clean up quickly.
Once the meal is over, don’t let dishes or leftovers linger. Wipe down tables and rinse off sticky spots to avoid drawing in pests.
6. Set up wasp traps strategically.
Wasp traps can be effective, but don’t hang them near the food. Place them at the edges of your yard to draw pests away from the party, not toward it.
7. Use natural deterrents.
Certain scents, like peppermint oil, eucalyptus, or cloves, can help repel wasps. Some homeowners swear by placing bowls of sliced cucumber or natural oils around patios and picnic tables. It’s not foolproof, but it can help.
8. Scan for nests.
Before you host a gathering, take a few minutes to check under the deck, around the eaves, and in bushes for any signs of nests. If you see one, don’t try to remove it yourself (especially if it’s active). That’s where professionals come in.

When It’s Time to Call in the Pros

Spotting a few wasps during a cookout isn’t unusual. But if you’re seeing a steady stream of them, or worse, spotting a nest, it’s time to call DeAngelo Pest Control. We safely remove active nests and treat your property to prevent future infestations.

Trying to take down a nest with spray or a broom rarely goes well. Wasps can be aggressive when threatened, and multiple stings aren’t just painful – they can be dangerous.

Click the link for a free quote! https://www.dcspest.com/get-a-quote/

 

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June Mosquito Dangers: What You Need to Know from DCS Pest Control

May 29, 2025

Summer has officially arrived and while that means more time outside, it also marks the start of peak mosquito season. At DCS Pest Control, we see a noticeable spike in mosquito service calls every June, and it’s easy to understand why. These tiny pests aren’t just annoying -they pose real threats to your health, comfort, and outdoor enjoyment.

Why Mosquitoes Love June

Warm, humid weather and leftover standing water from spring rains create the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Birdbaths, clogged gutters, unused flowerpots, and even kiddie pools can all become mosquito nurseries in a matter of days.

And it doesn’t take long for things to escalate. One mosquito can lay hundreds of eggs at a time, and within days, those eggs can turn into full-grown adults ready to bite. That’s why early action is so important. Waiting until you’re getting bitten means you’re already behind.

Mosquitoes Are More Than Just a Nuisance

It’s easy to brush off a mosquito bite as nothing more than a minor itch, but the truth is, these insects are among the most dangerous in the world. At DCS Pest Control, we know firsthand the health risks they carry for both people and pets.

Here are a few mosquito-borne threats to keep on your radar:

West Nile Virus

This is the most common mosquito-transmitted illness in our region. While some people may never show symptoms, others can experience fever, fatigue, or even more serious complications like inflammation of the brain.

Zika Virus

Though not widespread locally, Zika remains a concern for travelers. It’s especially dangerous for pregnant women due to its link to birth defects.

Dengue and Chikungunya

Traditionally seen in tropical areas, these viruses are starting to appear in the U.S. due to changing climate conditions and increased travel.

Heartworm in Pets

Mosquitoes don’t just bite people. They’re the primary carriers of heart-worm, a potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats.

How to Keep Mosquitoes Away

The good news is, you don’t have to surrender your yard to mosquitoes. With a few proactive steps and support from the experts at DCS Pest Control you can significantly cut down mosquito activity around your home.

Here’s what we recommend:

  • Remove standing water from your property and check weekly for buildup.
  • Use EPA-approved insect repellents when spending time outdoors.
  • Wear long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Repair or replace damaged window and door screens to keep bugs out.
  • Call DCS Pest Control for a personalized mosquito treatment plan.

Your Local Mosquito Control Experts

At DCS Pest Control, we use targeted, environmentally-conscious treatments that eliminate mosquitoes at every stage of life (from larvae to adults). Whether you need a one-time application for an upcoming event or a comprehensive season-long service plan, we’re here to help you reclaim your outdoor space.

Don’t wait for the bites to begin.

Click here to schedule your mosquito inspection and take back your summer: https://www.dcspest.com/get-a-quote/

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