The hazard
Outdoor crews work where ticks, mosquitoes and stinging insects live: tall grass, brush, wood piles, eaves and equipment that has sat for a while. Ticks and mosquitoes can spread diseases such as Lyme disease and West Nile virus, and a sting can set off a severe allergic reaction that needs emergency care right away.
The action
Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so dump water from buckets, tires, tarps and other containers on site. Be extra careful at dawn and dusk, when many mosquitoes are most active. Use repellent and long sleeves, and tell your supervisor if you get a fever, headache or body aches after being bitten.
ASK THE CREW
Where on this site have we seen ticks, nests or ant mounds?
From the talk: Insects, ticks and stings. Read it in full, free, with the questions and the sign-in sheet.