When the bugs start biting – which is commonplace this time of year – most people turn to insect repellents. Smart move. There’s no better way to ward off bugs then using personal repellents containing DEET or an effective DEET-free alternative. But it doesn’t end there. If you really want to ward of mosquitoes, you need to go with a triple layer of defense…I call it the “Big Three.”

Step One – Personal

If you’re used to applying a layer of insect repellent to your body (i.e. legs, arms, etc.), you’re off to a good start. Step one is lathering up with a personal insect repellent. There generally two options when it comes to repellents: DEET and DEET-free. A DEET based product is highly effective, but concerns have been raised about putting DEET on small general. If you’re looking for a repellent that’s safe and effective for everyone in the family, try the SkinSmart® formula from Coleman Repellents. SkinSmart is a patented formula proven to be as or more effective than DEET, Picaridin and other common repellents. It can be safely used on infants and children.

Step Two – Area

Make sure you’re using an area repellent like a Fogger or Citronella Lantern to provide a protective barrier around your yard or campsite. The second level of defense will keep mosquitoes and other pesky insects from invading your space.  

Step Three – Gear

Finally, apply a Gear & Clothing repellent to your tent, jacket, backpack and clothing. Gear and clothing treatments are designed to repel and kill many insects and can last up to two weeks.   

The next time you head outdoors, be sure to follow these three steps for bug-free enjoyment of the Great Outdoors.

Enjoy your summer!

We see mosquito season.

And trust us – they’re coming.  So, in the meantime, here are eight easy things you can do to make your home protected from the inevitable invasion of those pesky, blood-sucking bugs.

1. Keep mosquitoes from breeding by emptying or covering any receptacles around the home that can pool water.  This is crucial in spring time when rain is more prevalent.
2. Gutters should be kept clean so water flows properly.
3. Change the water in birdbaths every few days.
4. Cover wading pools, hot tubs and outdoor saunas.
5. Make your local health department aware of standing water in your area.
6. When outdoors, wear protective clothing when appropriate.
7. Loose, long-sleeve shirts and long pants, shoes and socks all help to keep insects from contact with your skin.
8. Keep the colors light as mosquitoes are more attracted to darker hues.

Protecting yourself from biting insects is not only convenient for you and your loved ones, it could save your life!  The CDC provides a thorough look here at diseases spread by mosquitoes.

Make sure you put these items on your to-do list for this summer, and don’t forget the repellent!

The candle not only looks great, but also provides a pleasant ambiance and relief from pesky mosquitoes and other biting insects.

• Burns up to 40 hours
• Excellent for backyards, campsites & picnic areas
• Incorporates an easy to grasp “U” shaped metal handle, which also allows the lantern to be hung