How to Protect Against Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Poison Sumac When Outside

Most people are allergic to at least one of these poisonous plants. Contact can cause some serious issues such as itching, oozing and rashes. Learn how to avoid the plant all together!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. First step to avoiding the ivy, oak and sumac is to be able, to properly identify them. So many people don't even know what these plants look like. Type the names into a search engine of choice and click to view images. Have a family member or friend take a hike with you, and help you identify these plants.

2. When going outside around where these plants might be lurking, wear proper attire. These means exposing as least skin as possible. Long pants and long sleeves shirts with tight cuffs or stuffing the pant legs in socks. Wear boots with high tops and long socks.

3. If you are doing any sort of activity that requires using your hands around weeds or wooded areas wear gloves.

4. If you believe you have came into contact with the poisonous plant, wash the area immediately with rubbing alcohol. Use water if you do not have access to the rubbing alcohol, then return home to use alcohol, if available and take a cold shower. Clothing should be cleaned with alcohol as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Rashes will usually appear 1 to 3 days after exposure if the skin has been affected.
• If affected treat the area properly and do not bust any blisters to avoid infection.
• Try your best not to scratch.