Don't let disease-carrying mosquitoes keep you indoors this summer. Instead, employ these eight tips to protect yourself and manage these pests in your yard.

Do a bit of yard and garden cleanup. Remove weeds, manage neglected gardens and keep the lawn properly mowed.Eliminate standing water. Drain buckets, kids toys, tarps, pool covers, clogged gutters and downspouts. Clear the gutters and downspouts so water can drain freely. Store items that collect water in a shed or garage.Evaluate drainage patterns in your landscape. Improve drainage by amending the soil with organic matter. Install French drains, drain tiles and other drainage systems if needed. Or turn it into a water feature.Manage water in birdbaths, fountains, ponds and rain barrels. Change water weekly in birdbaths and wading pools. Add a pump to keep water moving and prevent breeding. Or use an organic mosquito control in rain barrels and water features.Add a fan to your outdoor décor. The gentle breeze keeps these weak flying insects away.Provide short-term relief with citronella oil or scented candles. Scatter lots of these throughout the area and within a few feet of guests.Cover as much skin as possible with loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.Further protect yourself from disease-carrying mosquitoes by using a personal repellent. Avoid products that contain both sunscreen and insect repellents as you need to apply the sunscreen more often than the repellent.