August in Maine is synonymous with backyard fires, warm summer air… and often a buzz of insects. While you eat your s’mores and tell scary stories by the fire, remember there’s an even scarier monster lurking: the mosquito! Carrying many different types of sicknesses, mosquitoes are one of the true threats to our outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re a Maine native or newer to the area, you’ve likely called on the help of bug spray to keep you bite-free—but are you using it effectively? In honor of National Mosquito Day on August 20, here are some of our tips for safe, effective bug spray usage.
Apply bug spray to exposed skin and clothes. Tenacious insects can bite through your clothes too! In addition to spraying your skin, there are proven benefits to applying bug spray to your clothing. This helps keep the citronella smell strong and tends to wear off slower. Keep in mind, it is recommended to wash clothes sprayed with bug spray separate from other laundry.
For sensitive spots, apply bug spray by hand. You should never directly spray bug spray over your face. Not only can it get in your eyes, but it can be dangerous if inhaled into your lungs. Instead, spray it on your hands first and apply it to your face or other sensitive areas.
Spray in well-ventilated areas. Inhaling bug spray can cause coughing, breathing difficulties, and even heart problems. Applying bug spray in open, well-ventilated areas, such as your backyard, can help prevent insecticide poisoning. Be mindful of people and food around you.
Keep away from open flame. While you’re cozied up the fire, remember that bug spray is extremely flammable. Spraying the solution near a fire can result in damage or injury if the spray catches aflame. Make sure that your bug spray has completely dried before going near a fire.
Look for DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or PMD on the bottle. When shopping for your bug spray, search for ingredients which have been deemed safe for use by the Environmental Protection Agency. DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or PMD will keep bugs away from you, while other repellents, such as permethrin, work at killing bugs. Permethrin can be dangerous to your nervous system, so keep an eye on the labels.
For children, choose a repellent with 10-30% DEET. The higher the percent of DEET a repellent has, the longer it lasts. Do not apply bug spray to kids under the age of 2 months.
Wash off the bug repellent. When the fire burns out and it’s time for bed, be sure to wash off your bug spray and change your clothes. This reduces the risk of insecticide poisoning that can happen by accidentally ingesting bug spray or rubbing it into your eyes.
By following these tips, you and your family can relax on those warm August nights, confident that you’re protected from mosquito bites—and getting the most out of bug spray.