The hot weather is here and so are the pests! Just when you’re ready to enjoy the sun, warm weather, and outdoor activities, here come the bugs.

Insects such as mosquitoes, lice, and fleas are annoying and can damper your outside fun. We all have had a great night by the lake only to wake up the next morning with red, itchy blotches and bites. Worse yet, bugs like these can carry potentially dangerous diseases such as West Nile Virus or Lyme Disease among others.

However, this information should not deter our summer plans. There are many effective and safe ways to protect your family from outdoor insects.

One of the best ways is to use insect repellent aerosol sprays. These types of sprays are easy to use and can help reduce your chance of getting bit while outside.

Ingredients like DEET (also known as N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), Picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are EPA-registered chemicals in insect repellents.

While these chemicals are safe to use, The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and EPA both advise to follow all safety instructions when using insect repellent:

Before Use:

• Read all safety instructions before using the product. Using insect repellent may seem straightforward, but safety should never be taken for granted. For example, some repellents are not suitable for young children under three or pregnant women.
• Keep bug sprays and other repellent products away from children. Always have a parent or other adult apply bug spray.
• Always apply your bug spray outside. Never use insect repellent inside since you risk inhaling the fumes directly.
• Make not of anywhere you have a cut or skin rash. Do not apply insect repellent over cuts, bruises, or irritated skin. Bug spray can worsen already irritated areas of your skin.

During Use:

• Do not spray around sensitive areas such as your eyes and mouth to avoid irritation. While spraying insect repellent on children, have them close their eyes and turn their head away from the direction of the spray.
• Avoid spraying too much. Overuse does not equate to better protection, and a little go a long way.
• Do not spray near food or drink. When applying outside, find a secluded area away from picnic tables or food booths so not to bother other guests.

After Use:

Rinse your skin with soap and water as soon as you’re done for the day. Also, don’t forget to wash your clothes before wearing them again.

To keep your family safe during the summer from insect-borne illnesses and bites, read all instructions on your insect repellent spray and follow these helpful tips. Happy Summertiming!