In warm weather, mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and other insects
become annoying pests—and potential carriers of disease. So
what’s your best protection? There are things you can do: -
Avoid cultivating insect habitats. Drain standing water where
mosquitoes breed. - Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Wear them especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most
active. - Wear insect repellent. This is the most effective
protection from insect bites. Insect Repellent Basics There are
two kinds of insect repellents: man-made chemicals and plant-
based essential oils. The best-known chemical repellent is
DEET—the common name for N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide. DEET is the
main ingredient in many insect repellents. Repellents with DEET
have been shown to be more effective than other products in
preventing mosquito bites in particular. Repellents with DEET
are available as sprays and lotions. Repellents With DEET: Are
They Safe? DEET is safe when used according to directions. DEET
should not be used on children younger