It was a gorgeous day today in Southern California, despite the fact that it was HOT!  We spent the day hanging with friends, eating and swimming.  I love being outdoors, especially in the evenings, since the weather cools down to a very comfortable temperature.  What I don’t like….bugs!  In fact, hubby thinks I’m a little bit on the paranoid side when it comes to insects.

As you probably know, I’m not the type of person to use insect repellents on the body so I’m always looking for alternatives.  Fortunately for me, I’m not that attractive to mosquitoes but I definitely don’t want my friends or family to get bitten.  And it’s just annoying to be outside and continuously bothered by insects.  Off! recently came out with a PowerPad Lamp & Lantern capable of repelling mosquitoes from up to 15 ft by 15 ft (about the size of a patio).  Here is a little more information from the site:

The OFF!® PowerPad® Lamp and Lantern provide powerful mosquito protection with a pleasant, warm glow for outdoor parties. The products repel mosquitoes, including those that may carry the West Nile Virus. Heat-activated pads deter mosquitoes from an area up to 225 square feet, about the size of an average deck or patio.

So how does it work?  “The heat from the candle activates the repellent pad, releasing proven protection from mosquitoes.”  We’ve used Citronella candles in the past and while they’re effective, I’m not a fan of the way they smell.  Fortunately this does not have that characteristic smell (or any odor really) and it’s very effective at keeping mosquitoes away.

If you’re worried about using candles around your children (I have a toddler so this was a concern of mine), just use it as a lantern and hang it up high.  It still retains it’s effectiveness.

Win It! One of you will win an Off!  PowerPad Lamp & Lantern.  Simply head on over to the site and take a look around.  Come back here and leave me a comment with something you learned or found useful.  Comments will close on July 25, 2009 at 10 PM PST. One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

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“This post was written for Family Review Network as part of a program by SC Johnson, who also supplied the product for review and giveaway.”