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BugBand: The SHOT Show find of the day

ORLANDO, Fla. — It may seem like the human equivalent of Fido’s flea collar, but the makers of the BugBand might be on to something with their insect-repellent bracelet.

BugBand Products’ bracelet uses geraniol — an all-natural bug repellent derived from flowers — in place of the chemical DEET common to bug sprays.

Amid concerns over the safety of DEET-based repellents, a 1999 University of Florida researcher developed geraniol as an alternative solution — though reports differ on the effectiveness of such DEET alternatives.

The Environmental Protection Agency has said DEET does not pose significant health risks if used effectively, but if you’re looking for something different, BugBand’s bracelets are an interesting option.

We don’t know if they work — there weren’t any plagues of locusts buzzing the Orange County Convention Center — but we’re intrigued enough to call this one the find of the day for our third day at the Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade Show and Conference, or SHOT Show.

Among the bugs the bracelets ward off are mosquitoes, flies, gnats, fleas, ticks, head lice and other blood-feeding insects, according to BugBand officials.

They’re good for 120 hours of use if stored in their resealable packaging and are available in multiple colors, though olive drab is the only one that could be considered tactical. The bracelet sells for $4.95.

If you’re looking for an option that doesn’t scream “LIVE STRONG copycat,” BugBand also sells towelettes and spray lotion — and animal bedding material, if Fido is your wingman in the fight against flies.

Troops in Iraq are already using the BugBand bracelets, said Vivian Ritter, vice president of BugBand Products, who noted that some are hooking the bands around their boot tops or on the back of their helmets – the bracelet doesn’t have to be in direct contact with the skin to work.

If you’re worried about smelling like a hothouse full of flowers, don’t sweat it. As compared to common DEET-based bug repellents, the BugBand repellent carries a less powerful and more pleasant odor.

BugBand products are available through many retailers; to find a seller near you, visit www.bugband.net.