How to Prevent No-See-Ums From Biting on a Boat
The tiny aquatic flies known as no-see-ums are only 2 to 3 mm long, but their bites raise itchy, red welts that are much larger. The insects are nearly invisible and their bites themselves do not hurt, but they are ubiquitous along beaches, marshes and slow-moving rivers, and in some areas they carry disease. The most effective prevention sprays contain high levels of DEET, but there are options for people who prefer natural products instead.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Long pants
- Socks
- Insect repellent spray
- Insect repellent dispenser
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1
Wear long sleeves, long pants and tall socks to cover as much of your skin as possible. Mosquito-netting jackets that cover the wearer's face are also available for people who do not want to take any chances.
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2
Apply insect repellent containing DEET liberally to any skin you have left uncovered, except the area around your eyes. Choose your spray according to how long you expect to be on the boat. For expeditions up to six hours, a 15 percent DEET concentration is sufficient; for eight hours, 30 percent is effective; for ten hours or longer, use repellent that is 100 percent DEET.
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3
Place an insect-repellent dispenser at the bottom of your boat if you do not want to apply repellent to your skin. Some brands contain DEET and some do not. Your dispenser should protect a 15-by-15-foot area.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Garlic is a natural insect repellent, as is wax myrtle. Break a stick of wax myrtle off the plant and rub it directly on your skin to repel no-see-ums. These remedies may not be as effective as repellents containing DEET.
Thoroughly wash insect repellent off your skin when your boating trip is finished.
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