Beware of insect repellent containing DEET

[wildpicture]

Unfortunately DEET is one of the very few, if not only, substances that really keeps insects like (malaria) mosquitoes away. So if you are traveling to areas that have malaria, please do use repellent that contains DEET.

But keep it away from your fingertips when touching any equipment with plastics. I had my fingerprints "burned" into a camera too on one of my African trips. These days I usually put some repellent on my hands and then wash the inside of my hands before touching any equipment.

[Bonish Photo]

I've found a good way to do it so the DEET doesnt touch my bare skin is to spray a napkin or off wet-wipe style repellent, and then clip it to my jacket or the back of my wide brimmed hat.

That way the DEET is on the piece of fabric and not on myself.

Great info on the plastic stuff and I'll make a mental note of that

[Southern Wolf]

But keep it away from your fingertips when touching any equipment with plastics. I had my fingerprints "burned" into a camera too on one of my African trips.

that is a good way to prove that a stolen piece of equipment is really yours. All they have to do is match the finger prints.

[TimothyHughes]

Deet stripped the painted picture style dial icons off my dad's point and shoot film camera. Sorry dad!

[sjarrett]

The idea of spraying a napkin or wipe is good. I try to aim for my hat, socks, a bandana, the cuffs of pants or shirt sleeves. I had my fingerprints embedded in my old Vivitar flash unit.