How to Protect Adults From Insect Bites and Stings in the Wilderness

Insect bites can be annoying, and some bites and stings can be dangerous. The key to prevention is to be alert when in insect habitats and to minimize contact.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Athletic Socks
• Long Pants
• Long-sleeved Shirts
• Pants
• Sporty Hats
• Mosquito Netting
• Permethrin Products
• Insect Repellents
• Avon Skin-So-Soft®

1. Wear an insect repellent containing DEET on all exposed areas of the body.
2. Wear dark clothing thick enough that bugs can't bite through it. Make sure that your arms and legs are completely covered.
3. Look carefully before picking up stones or logs where insects might be hiding, and exercise caution when reaching under ledges.
4. Shake out shoes and clothing before putting them on, especially if they have been sitting outdoors. Unzip and shake out sleeping bags before climbing into them.
5. Zip tent screens shut, and open screens only when entering and exiting the tent.
6. Wear a hood of mosquito netting if bugs are particularly persistent.
7. Sleep enclosed in a mosquito net if you're in an area where mosquitoes or wasps are especially numerous or persistent.
8. Wear shoes at all times - especially after dark, when insects are likely to be around.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not apply DEET underneath clothing.
• Wash insect repellent off of the skin after bites or stings are no longer a threat.
• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.