3 Ways to Stay Safe With Bug Repellant This Summer

by

Michael D. Ponce

Last Updated May 21, 2014 In Personal Injury

Summer is just around the corner and with the heat of the season will come those pesky biting bugs. Repellants can be a great way to keep insects like mosquitoes, black flies, and midges at bay, but if you aren’t careful, these products can result in serious personal injury.

Some of the chemicals found in many common bug repellants have been found to be extremely toxic. An article from News Channel 5 Consumer Reports explains that a chemical known as DEET is traditionally used in many bug repellants despite known risks such as blistering, loss of speech control, seizures, and comas. These are just a few reasons experts advise consumers not to use products containing more than 30 percent DEET.

Other products may use a chemical known as metofluthrin to ward off insects; however, the chemical has been linked to adverse effects on the nervous systems of users in the past.

Many bug sprays are highly flammable, presenting users with serious risk of fire and burn injuries if used near an open flame.

In order to keep the public safe from the hazards bug repellants may pose this summer, the Nashville personal injury lawyers with Ponce Law suggest:

• Using Natural Products– Repellants are available that use natural remedies to keep bugs away, such as citronella and eucalyptus. Parents should refrain from using Eucalyptus products on children under age 3.
• Setting Up A Fan- If outside, circulating air will prevent insects from lingering in the area and will work to cool you as well.
• Screening In- Canopies can be set up to keep bugs away and many porches can use fine mesh to create a barrier impenetrable to insects.