Don't Let Yourself Be Eaten: 14 Ways to Escape Mosquitoes in Nature

Summer is a time for long walks, travel, and outdoor recreation. You want to enjoy this time to the fullest and not have your life spoiled by annoying insects. Mosquitoes can be dangerous because they carry diseases, such as tularemia and West Nile fever. Bites cause allergic reactions, itching, and irritation. To make your walks comfortable, use mosquito protection in nature.

1. Avoid places with stagnant water. Large swarms usually gather near swamps and ponds. In such places, bloodsuckers actively reproduce and will not miss the chance to attack you. Study the area carefully. If you are going on a picnic, choose sunny and open places. Mosquitoes prefer shaded and damp areas. If possible, climb to higher ground or hills. Parks with well-kept territory are also suitable for a comfortable stay in nature.

2. Use repellents. They create a barrier with the help of active ingredients in the composition. Some components block the receptors of insects responsible for smell and heat perception. Repellents can significantly reduce the risk of bites, are easy to apply to skin and clothing, are available in the form of lotion and cream, and remain on the body for several hours. However, they can cause allergic reactions, have an unpleasant smell, and a sticky feeling. Repellents require re-application after a certain period, which is not always convenient. You will have to constantly carry the product with you on long walks.

3. Avoid perfumes. Avoid using strong-smelling cosmetics while walking. Avoid using sweet-tasting body lotions. They attract mosquitoes, which will immediately fly to your skin. Instead, you can apply essential oils. Lavender, eucalyptus, citronella, rosemary, and mint repel bloodsuckers. Apply a few drops to your skin and walk in nature without fear. It is worth paying attention to your appearance. Choose light and loose clothing. It should cover your skin. Avoid black and tight clothing.

4. Use a fire. Smoke from burning wood contains chemical compounds that can repel insects. The heat from the fire creates unfavorable conditions for bloodsuckers, which prefer damp places. Bright light also distracts them, especially at night. The advantages of a fire include the fact that it is a natural remedy. It creates a cozy atmosphere for outdoor recreation, multifunctional in use. However, if safety rules are not followed, a fire may occur. Smoke from a fire causes discomfort, irritating the mucous membranes. Kindling requires significant time and effort to prepare and maintain the fire.

5. Avoid walking early in the morning and late in the evening. At dawn, the temperature is not too high yet, and the humidity is high, so mosquitoes are actively looking for prey. With the sunset, the bloodsuckers feel the coolness and become annoying again.

6. Treat your clothes with fabric repellents containing permethrin. It will create a barrier to repel insects.

7. If you are camping, use special mosquito nets for tents. Don't forget about the sleeping bag.

8. Use special chalks and powders. There are chalks and powders that can be applied to the ground around your resting place to create a protective barrier. However, they are not always effective.

9. Before taking off your clothes, make sure there are no mosquitoes or other insects left on them. This will help prevent future bites.

10. Stay active. You are less likely to get bitten by mosquitoes if you are active. Walking, playing, and exercising will help you stay on the move.

11. Pyrotechnic fumigators, such as coils and plates, work by creating a special cloud that repels mosquitoes. These devices can be used outdoors. However, pyrotechnic fumigators have their drawbacks. The smoke from the coils can contain toxic substances that can cause respiratory irritation and even severe allergic reactions. Their effect is limited to a small area.

12. Remove any food or drink left after a picnic. They may attract mosquitoes and other insects.

13. If there is a swimming pool on your dacha plot, do not forget to clean it regularly and change the water. Also, do not forget to cover the pool with an awning when you are not using it.

14. Mow the grass. Clear away cluttered areas. Mosquitoes and other insects may hide there.

By using these tips, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites and enjoy your time outdoors. Remember that methods may work differently for each person, so it is worth combining several of them to achieve the best result.