Tips for the Summer

Hey everyone,
I'm not sure if you all have heard the rumors yet about bugs this upcoming summer. I know it's all my grandmother can talk about, haha. But supposably due to the winter not being as harsh as usual, there are suppose to be a lot more bugs this summer than usual. So as you all prepare to go enjoy your break, here are some tips to help you avoid these insects as best you can. This information was found on http://www.aap.org

BUG SAFETY 

• Don’t use scented soaps, perfumes or hair sprays 
• Avoid areas where insects nest or congregate, such as stagnant pools of water, uncovered foods and gardens where flowers are in bloom. 
• Avoid dressing in clothing with bright colors or flowery prints. 
• To remove a visible stinger from skin, gently back it out by scraping it off horizontally with a credit card or your fingernail. 
• Combination sunscreen/insect repellent products should be avoided because sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, but the insect repellent should not be reapplied.
• Use insect repellents containing DEET when needed to prevent insect-related diseases. Ticks can transmit Lyme Disease, and mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus and other viruses.
• The effectiveness is similar for 10% to 30% DEET but the duration of effect varies. Ten percent DEET provides protection for about 2 hours, and 30% protects for about 5 hours. Choose the lowest concentration that will provide the required length of coverage.
• The concentration of DEET varies significantly from product to product, so read the label of any product you purchase. 
• As an alternative to DEET, picaridin has become available in the U.S. in concentrations of 5% to10%.