(CNN) - The warmer temperatures of summer mean more outdoor activities. And that means making sure you and your loved ones are protected against insect bites and stings.
Here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Avoid sweet-smelling sprays, lotions, or hair products when outdoors.
When outside, wear insect repellent containing DEET. But don't apply it more than once a day and don't use it on children younger than two months.
Never spray repellent directly on your face.
Use your hands to apply it there, and avoid the mouth, eyes and ears, along with cuts and irritated skin.
Never allow children to handle or apply bug spray.
Use soap and water to wash repellent off as soon as you come back indoors.
If a rash or other reaction develops, call your health care provider if it's mild or call the poison control center for guidance if it's severe.
If you have concerns about using DEET, Ingredients such as picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are alternatives.
And if you prefer to go chemical free, hats, closed shoes, long pants tucked into socks and a long-sleeved shirt can help protect you from a variety of insects.
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