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Insect Protection

Summer is a time for fishing, camping, hiking, basking in the sun and picnics. It is also the best time for the season's worst pests - BUGS.

The best protection against summer pests is insect repellent. In Canada, the bug repellent market is aimed at four common biting pests: mosquitoes, black flies, no-see-ums and horseflies.

All of these bugs have one need in common, their craving for blood. They require blood to either produce eggs or for food.

Since 1975, all repellents sold in Canada have had to conform to the Pest Control Act. Manufacturers must guarantee their insect repellent provide at least four hours protection and must back any claims printed on the labels.

The main ingredient in most bug repellent is "deet" (diethyl tolumide). It works well against a large number of insects. Another chemical, ethyl hexandial, is also used but is effective against a smaller number of bugs. Neither chemical is effective against stinging insects, like bees or wasps.

But before you reach for that can of bug spray, there are some basic precautions you should take:

  • Bugs are attracted to perfumes and shiny objects. Leave your scented cosmetics, soaps, aftershaves and flashy jewelry at home.
  • Mosquitoes and gnats are attracted to bright, vivid colours. The best clothes to wear are those that are white, grey or khaki.
  • Bugs are also attracted to the warmth and sweat of active people.
  • The best guide to choosing a repellent is the label. All labels must state the percentage of active ingredient in the product. Some liquids contain almost 90% repellent while sprays and lotions may contain only 15% active ingredient. The other ingredients help propel the spray or make lotions easier to spread.
  • Insect repellents work by confusing the bugs' sensors. The bugs won't be attracted to the warm, moist air current around you. This current guides the bugs to a source of blood - you!
  • Repellents won't stop bugs from swarming around you but they should prevent bugs from landing on you.
  • Repellents are washed off by sweat, rain and water. They should be reapplied throughout the day.
  • Remember repellents only work where they are applied. If you miss a spot, the bug won't. Some types of insects can bite right through clothes, so you may want a full spray treatment.
  • To get rid of bees or other flying insects, spray them with hair spray. The spray makes it hard for them to fly and gives you time to catch them and throw them away.

For more information, call collect or e-mail our Consumer Affairs Officer at MACA headquarters in Yellowknife at: (867) 873-7125.