How to Keep Pests Out of the Boat

Imagine this... You drive for hours to your lake vacation home, put on your swim suit, get all packed up for a day on the water, walk out to the boat, and to your dismay... the seats have been torn apart by a pest while you were gone. Believe it or not, this happens all the time! Firstmate Controls was born to help keep you safe and be able to enjoy the amazing hobby of boating. So today, let's talk about how to keep your boat (and yourself!) safe from pests. 



Ditch the Banana 


There are several sunscreens and products out there that have an artificial banana smell to them. While it might be a pleasing smell for you, it is also a very attractive smell to a lot of different pests. In fact, some banana-smelling sunscreens smell so much like banana that racoons will shred the seats in your boat looking for a delicious banana to eat. Additionally, bees emit pheromones when they are angry that can smell similar to banana. While it's not perceptible to the human nose, other bees can smell it and try to come to the "angry bee's" aide. 


Treat Your Boat Too


When you have your pest control company come out and treat your dock, ask that they also treat your boat for bugs and spiders. If they don't, the spiders on your dock may migrate to your boat to escape the insecticide. 



Use Natural Bug Repellant


Most bug sprays have pretty toxic ingredients that can not only be harmful to you, but can also be really bad for the ecosystem when you jump in the water with all that bug spray on your skin. Instead, try some natural substances that repel bugs and aren't bad for you or the environment. Always read instructions on how to use these items before trying them. It can also be a good idea to try a small amount first to make sure no one in your group is allergic to them.

  • Lemon eucalyptus oil
  • Lavender
  • Cinnamon oil
  • Thyme
  • Citronella 
  • Tea tree oil

Dispose of Food & Drinks Properly


Don't leave food wrappers and empty cans in an open trash can. The smells from these items can attract ants, rodents, racoons, yellow jackets, and other scavengers looking for a tasty meal. Keep a trash can with a secure lid on it for the duration of your day out on the water with the boat or hanging out on the dock. At the end of the day, be sure to empty the trash can and remove anything from the dock and boat that would attract pests by the smell. 

Keep Your Dock Safe


When you're into boating, you want to be able to enjoy your hobby as long as possible and without getting yourself in a dangerous situation. Firstmate Controls can help you spend more time out on the water with our remote control boat lift system, built to keep you safe and to make your boating experience more convenient. Check out our website to learn more! 


Boat Lift Controls You Can Count On!

Firstmate Controls 
410 Century Business Drive
Labadie, MO 63055

Phone: (866) 570-9707


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