The unrelenting heat may be putting a damper on summer fun for many Americans, but it's actually creating ideal conditions for pests, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) warned. The especially hot temperatures much of the country has experienced this summer are leading to increased populations of many pests, including ants, fleas, tick, termites, scorpions, brown recluse spiders, black widow spiders, Japanese beetles, pincher bugs and earwigs.

"Insects are cold-blooded, which means that their body temperatures are regulated by the temperature of their environment," explained Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the NPMA. "In cold weather, insects' internal temperatures drop, causing them to slow down. But in warm weather, they become more active. Larvae grow at a faster rate, reproduction cycles speed up and they move faster."

According to the NOAA National Climatic Data Center, the first half of 2012 has been the warmest on record for the U.S. mainland since record keeping began in 1895. This summer has been especially brutal, with heat waves sending temperatures soaring in 20 states and breaking more than 170 all-time warmth records. In addition, unusually dry weather is causing wide-spread droughts, which when combined with the heat, can increase pest infestations.

"Hot and dry conditions send many summer pests indoors, as they seek moisture and cooler temperatures, so homeowners will likely encounter more pests in their homes than usual," says Henriksen. "Even areas of the country that are receiving rain aren't in the clear, as standing rain water breeds mosquitoes, which can spread West Nile virus."

The NPMA recommends that those spending time outdoors take steps to prevent encountering summer pests, including wearing insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin. If you find pests in your home or property, contact your licensed pest professional. Thomas Pest Services will properly identify your pest problem and recommend a course of treatment.

Keep your family and friends healthy and safe this summer by following these tips for preventing pests. For more information, contact Thomas Pest Services or National Pest Management Association. Ants, bees, mosquitoes, spiders, ticks are just some of the summer pests in the Clifton Park area. These insects have the ability to invade your Saratoga home/business or outdoor gathering. Thomas Pest Services is your summer pest expert in Northeast New York serving towns in and around Chatham, East Greenbush,Albany, Schenectady, Clifton Park, Malta, Saratoga, Edinburgh and Lake George. Contact us today, for a pest solution that meets your property, family and pest needs, so you can enjoy your summer without bothersome pests.