While school is back in session, Georgians won’t be giving up on summer fun just yet. In fact, many of us may be spending even more time outside as it starts to cool off this September and October.

Unfortunately, mosquitoes will be with us until it’s time to go in and turn on the heat. Here are some tips for limiting your family’s exposure to mosquitoes.

• Make sure there is no standing water on your property or near your home. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a teaspoon of water, and that means everything from a bottle cap to the tarp covering the patio furniture is fair game.
• Get in the habit of looking for mosquito habitats every two weeks or whenever you mow the grass.
• Use EPA-approved mosquito repellents when playing or working outdoors. Repellents that use DEET are the most tested and are approved for children 2 months old and older, but some ingredients have also been approved by the EPA, two of which are derived from natural materials. Visit www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/find-insect-repellent-right-you to find a repellent that meets your family’s needs.
• Never let children apply repellents themselves. Adults should apply them to their hands and rub them on their child’s arms and legs.
• Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts and pants whenever possible.