"Mosquito Squad Denies 'Dread Skeeter' Character Targets Children"

"Environmental health experts, advocates and legislators convened at Yale University on Tuesday to discuss the use of man-made pesticides and the health risks they pose, especially to children. One of the main topics of conversation: pest control marketing campaigns that appear to target children."



"Last month, The Huffington Post highlighted strategies used by Mosquito Squad, a national company whose business has skyrocketed this year to include more than 100 franchises. A super-hero like mascot named Dread Skeeter adorns the pages of the company's website and kid's coloring book. Pictures and videos show him interacting with kids at parades, playgrounds and baseball games.

Many people fear that such tactics can threaten children's health, whether by manipulating parents’ purchasing of pesticides or by making both parents and children feel safe around a potentially poisonous product."

Lynne Peeples reports for the Huffington Post July 19, 2012.
 

Source: Huffington Post, 07/20/2012