How to Enjoy the Outdoors Without Getting Eaten Alive by Mosquitoes
The warm weather months are a great time to get outdoors and enjoy all that nature has to offer. However, along with the sunny days and cool breezes comes the constant threat of mosquito bites. No one wants to spend their summer being itchy and covered in welts, so what can be done to enjoy the outdoors without getting bitten? Read on for some tips on how to keep mosquitoes at bay.
- Use insect repellent – This is probably the most obvious solution, but it is also the most effective. When choosing an insect repellent, be sure to select one that contains DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus as the active ingredient. Apply the repellent according to the package directions, and remember to reapply as needed.
- Dress appropriately – Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when spending time outdoors, and try to stick to light-colored clothing if possible. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so wearing lighter hues will help you blend in with your surroundings and make it more difficult for them to spot you.
- Avoid standing water – Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, so it’s important to avoid any standing water around your home. Empty any unused flowerpots, birdbaths, or kiddie pools, and be sure to keep gutters clean and clear of debris so they can drain properly. You should also check any outdoor toys such as swingsets or trampolines for puddles of water that may have been collected in crevices or joints.
- Stay indoors during peak mosquito hours – Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to stay indoors during those times if possible. If you must go outside, take extra precautions such as wearing long sleeves and pants and using an EPA-registered insect repellent.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer without having to worry about pesky mosquitoes ruining your fun. So get out there and enjoy the warm weather! Just be sure to pack some insect repellent first.