Whether your family is hitting the hiking trail, barbecuing in the backyard or camping out in the great outdoors, you'll want to protect against insect bites. Not only will your outdoor experiences be more pleasant without itchy red welts on the arms and legs, but it's also important to protect against possible insect-borne illnesses, such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease. Therefore, as the weather gets warmer and you head outdoors, make sure you have the best level of defense against biting insects and pests -- bring along a can of Ultrathon insect repellent from 3M.

Ultrathon insect repellent provides long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, insects and the diseases they carry, such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease. Originally developed by 3M scientists to protect U.S. troops, Ultrathon insect repellent now is widely available to consumers. With its patented 3M Controlled Release Technology (DEET evaporates slower so that lower levels of DEET last longer), a single application of Ultrathon insect repellent repels bugs longer by providing continuous protection for up to eight hours. Ultrathon insect repellent also is splash and sweat resistant, and easy to apply. In fact, the can is designed to spray right-side up or upside-down for convenient application and total coverage, even in hard-to-reach areas (like the back of the legs).

Ultrathon insect repellent spray is available at mass merchandise, drug, food and sporting goods stores nationwide. The average retail price of the six-ounce can is $5.49.

About 3M

3M is a $16 billion diversified technology company with leading positions in consumer and office; display and graphics; electronics and telecommunications; health care; industrial; safety, security and protection services; transportation and other businesses. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, the company has operations in more than 60 countries and serves customers in nearly 200 countries. 3M is one of the 30 stocks that make up the Dow Jones Industrial Average and also is a component of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index. For more information about 3M, go to www.3M.com/profile/pressbox/index.jhtml.

Ultrathon is a trademark of 3M.

Hunter Public RelationsAmy Coles, 212-679-6600, Ext. 221acoles@hunterpr.comor3MKatherine Hagmeier, 651-575-4368klhagmeier@mrnm.com