How to Prevent Sand Flea Bites

Most people think of a trip to the beach and imagine nothing more than sand, sun and good times. Few people imagine red, itchy welts on the backs of their legs. Anyone who has dealt with sand flea bites knows that they're not much fun at the beach. Take these precautions at your next beach excursion to prevent sand flea bites.

Instructions

• 1

  Try to avoid the beach after it has rained. These moist, cooler conditions seem to put the fleas at their friskiest state. Give the area a chance to dry and warm up a little before venturing out.

• 2

  Wait until mid-morning to early afternoon to go the beach, as the cooler early morning hours are a favorite time of these little mites.

• 3

  Give your body a good coating of insect repellent before heading out. Check the label to make sure that the repellent works on fleas and not just mosquitoes.

• 4

  Put something between yourself and the sand before sitting down, be it a beach towel or lawn chair. The reason sand flea bites are commonly located on the backs of the thighs is because this is the most exposed and accessible area when sitting directly on the sand.

• 5

  Wear longer shorts if there will be direct contact with the sand. Board shorts work fairly well. Be mindful of the calves and ankles, however, as they are fair game as well.

• 6

  Reapply the insect repellent if the beach party continues after sunset. Biting insects tend to get a second wind when the evening sets in.