Stay Away!

"If Noah had been truly wise, he would've swatted those two flies! (and mosquitoes!)"

 

 

It's that time of year when it is hard to sit outside for a backyard barbeque. If it weren't for those pesky little mosquitoes, the evenings outside would be perfect!

 

 

What is the best way to keep these insects away? Most people reach for a can of repellent. Here are a few tips for using repellents safely:

 

 

Always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label. EPA recommends the following when using insect repellents:

• Apply repellents only to exposed skin and/or clothing (as directed on the product label). Do not apply repellents under your clothing.
• Never use repellents over cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
• Do not apply to eyes or mouth, and apply sparingly around ears. When using repellent sprays, do not spray directly on your face—spray on your hands first and then apply to your face.
• Do not allow children to handle or spray the product. When using on children, apply to your own hands first and then put it on the child. Avoid applying repellent to children’s hands because children frequently put their hands in their eyes and mouths.
• Use just enough repellent to cover exposed skin and/or clothing. Heavy application does not give you better or longer lasting protection.
• After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water or bathe. This is particularly important when repellents are used repeatedly in a day or on consecutive days.
• If you (or your child) get a rash or other reaction from a repellent, stop using the repellent, wash the repellent off with mild soap and water, and call a local poison control center for further guidance. If you go to a doctor, it might be helpful to take the repellent with you.