People all over the country are looking forward to spending time in the pool this summer, with Memorial Day being the traditional start of the swimming season. Pool owners may wonder how to keep mosquitoes away from the area so everyone can enjoy themselves without those pesky critters hovering around. Use some effective strategies to discourage mosquitoes from taking up residence on your property.

Get Rid of Standing Water

Mosquitoes breed and lay eggs in standing water. They don't like chlorinated water, so your pool won't attract them even when it's not in use. However, any other standing water on your property is a problem. That might include rainwater left in a canoe, bucket, empty planter, wheelbarrow, dog dish or old tires. Dump out standing water after a rainstorm and cover items such as boats and empty containers. Change birdbath water regularly.

Some standing water isn't obvious. If you haven't cleaned out the gutters in a while, for example, mosquitoes could be breeding in there.

Trim Back Plants

Like other insects, mosquitoes like plants. They also prefer shady areas. If your swimming pool area is a jungle, it will attract mosquitoes. Trim back any tree branches that hang over the pool or deck, and keep your nearby bushes well pruned.

Set Up Fans

Mosquitoes don't like breezy conditions, so setting up a fan or two can help. A couple of floor fans or fans on pedestals can make a noticeable difference. If you have a gazebo, pavilion or cabana, consider installing a ceiling fan. 

What About Birds and Bats?

Many people like to try reducing the mosquito population by setting up birdhouses and feeders, along with bat houses. It's true that many species of winged wildlife eat mosquitoes, but that may not decrease the numbers as much as you would hope. 

Look at it from their point of view. They want to get the best meal possible with the least amount of effort. Birds and bats that dine on insects tend to go after bigger ones, such as beetles and moths.

Call for Professional Assistance

Pest control services like E & R Exterminating Company, Inc. use a variety of techniques to reduce mosquito populations on their customers' properties. For instance, they might spray insecticide on tree and shrubbery branches near the ground, as well as on tall grass and areas with a lot of shade. They'll avoid spraying on flowers since beneficial pollinating insects make stops there. A nearly hidden insecticide misting system for these areas also can be installed. The property owner can run this equipment with a remote control as needed. Call a local pest management service to get started.