GOING HIKING? Don't forget these mosquito safety tips

Temperatures are beginning to warm, bringing the perfect brisk weather for hiking and, unfortunately, mosquitoes. But, when roaming the trails, you can avoid the annoyance of mosquitoes and bites that may lead to illness, as a human case of West Nile virus was confirmed in Wisconsin in the summer of 2022. Mosquito Squad of South Central Wisconsin is your local expert in helping you and your family enjoy the outdoors. Follow these mosquito safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

TREAT CLOTHING AND GEAR WITH PERMETHRIN

Apply Permethrin to clothing or even gear. Permethrin kills mosquitoes when they land on treated clothing. Finding Permethrin is easy and commonly found at stores like Walmart, REI, or DICK's Sporting Goods. Permethrin can be applied by spraying it onto your clothing or soaking it. Be sure to use the Permethrin according to the label. Once dry, the treated clothing can last up to several washes!

WEAR LONG SLEEVES AND PANTS

Wear long sleeves and pants to prevent you from looking like a snack to mosquitoes. The thicker and looser the clothing, the better, which makes it more challenging for mosquitoes to reach your skin, but it doesn't make it impossible, and as it begins to get warmer, thick clothing may not be a viable option. In warm weather, loose moisture-wicking material is your best choice. Long socks tucked into your pants are your best bet to keep away mosquitoes and ticks when you hike off the beaten path.

MOSQUITO REPELLENT ON EXPOSED SKIN

Mosquito repellents have advanced over the years. The valuable protection can be applied with sprays, lotions, and wipes! Apply repellents to any exposed skin, such as your neck, arms, and legs. Look for products that use ingredients like DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Lemon Eucalyptus.

Now that you're all set with mosquito safety tips, it's time to hit the must-visit trails in South Central Wisconsin. Prairie Moraine County Park (Verona, WI), CamRock County Park (Cambridge, WI), Lake Kegonsa State Park (Stoughton, WI), Big Foot Beach State Park (Fontana, WI), Capital Springs State Recreation Area (Fitchburg, WI), and Badger Prairie County Park (Oregon, WI) are all great options to explore. The trails at Prairie Moraine County Park and part of the Ice Age Trail offer sweeping views and QR codes that provide audio clips about the history of the Moraine too. You will want to take advantage of these scenic landscapes and their history.

As you head out, remember these tips for mosquito control safety when hitting the trails, and enjoy the outdoors! Searching for more ways to protect yourself from mosquitoes? Follow our 7 Ts of Mosquito Control!