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By Gina Thompson
Florida living is beautiful. We have bright blue beaches, towering evergreens, and magnificent wildlife. Unfortunately, that also means mosquitoes are ever-present. Each time you venture outside, you’ll likely come home with a bug bite or two.
Mosquito bites can get itchy, but if you scratch too much, you could cause an infection. And some mosquitoes carry diseases, such as malaria. Still, don’t let your fear of these bloodsuckers keep you from adventuring.
That said, be aware that mosquito season in Florida is nearly year-round.
Here are a few tips for preventing mosquito bites when visiting one of Florida’s State Forests:
Use Bug Spray
The No. 1 way to keep mosquitoes from biting you is mosquito repellant. However, to keep you, your family, and the environment safe, you need to be mindful of which kind of spray you pick up.
DEET
DEET is the most common active ingredient in insect repellants. The chemical deters bugs by making it hard to smell us. While DEET is the most popular repellant, it still is a chemical that could cause reactions to sensitive skin.
Picaridin
Picaridin is another highly effective bug-repellant. This synthetic solution is colorless and odorless. Do not confuse Picaridin with Permethrin. Permethrin is an insecticide and should never contact skin.
Natural Repellants
If you prefer the au-natural route to mosquito prevention, stock up on mineral and essential oils. Opt for oils such as citronella, lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, and rosemary to deter pests. All you need to do is add a few drops of the essential oils to your mineral oil and liberally apply it to exposed skin.
Wear Long Sleeves
Protect your skin from mosquitoes and other biting insects by tucking your clothes into each other. The same concept you use on snow days also prevents bug bites. That means tucking your shirt into your pants and then tucking your pants into your socks. This practice insulates your body and prevents bugs from crawling up your pants or shirt.
Know When to Be Outside
One of the best ways to enjoy Florida’s State Forests is with kids, but they can get fussy if they are hot, hungry, or itching from mosquito bites. The time of day you are outside affects the number of mosquitos you encounter.
It is best to avoid exploring the forests when mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Dawn and twilight are dark, brisk, and sometimes the wettest part of the day. Mosquitoes thrive in humid environments and are less likely to be out during the hot and dry afternoons.
Avoid Standing Water
Dumping still water is the best way to prepare for mosquito season. Whether at home or on a hike, get rid of standing water. If it is a puddle or patch of water that you can’t move, just stay away from it. Standing water is a nesting ground for mosquitoes, and they can mature quickly.
Use Mosquito Nets
A mosquito net is handy if you are camping or staying outdoors in one spot for a long time. Mosquito nets use a mesh material threaded so closely together that the little bugs can’t fly in. You can drape this net over your tent or put it at thresholds.
Light a Repellant Candle
If you’re interested in keeping mosquitoes out of a small area, say a porch or balcony, try a mosquito repellant candle. Citronella candles and coils have a pleasant smell to us but not to mosquitoes. Place the candle or coil on an outside table or bench and enjoy your forest time without the bites.
Turn Fans On
Mosquitoes aren’t good flyers, and it gets hot in Florida. That means when you turn on the fan, you’re sure to keep those pesky bugs away. If your fan has an oscillating feature, turn that on too. That will make your fan turn from side to side, cooling down more of the space and keeping mosquitoes from getting too close to your area.
Remember, discovering all the Sunshine State has to offer is fun, but itchy mosquito bites are not. Keep these mosquito bite prevention tips handy to keep you and your family safe during your next walk through one of Florida’s State Forests. Also, don’t forget to throw some anti-itch cream into your first aid kit — just in case.
Gina Thompson is an experienced multimedia journalist, producer, and content writer born and raised in Texas. In her spare time, she loves catching a live band, dancing, and finding the next big taco spot. As a writer, she is passionate about making a positive impact on her community by elevating the voices and stories that need to be heard.