Although such incidence are rare (Nparks destroys them when they are found), a kit for insect stings would be useful. One villager recommended “Po Sum On” medicated oil. She was bitten by a centipede and the oil helped.

Ubin regular KP Tan, who has been stung by both, consider centipede bites to be more painful than scorpion bites. It must be very painful indeed. In my case I thought I a small snake has sunk its teeth into my hand and refused to let go. I was at a temple retreat in Thailand then, I couldn’t scream as everyone is sleeping then and tried shaking my hand for the imaginary snake to let go of me until I saw it was a scorpion that bit me.

Update: 22 Jun 2010. I find medicated oil like Tiger balm of little help in relieving itchy bites. But this oil seems to be most effective for me.

The small bottle of oil is protected by a metal container, preventing accidental uncapping and spills. They are available at Mustafa shopping centre. Get the smaller bottle as it is more convenient to apply without spilling.

You can try natural remedies like aloe vera. Nparks grow them at the Secret Garden located behind Ubin Police Post. Just cut a small slice from the fleshy leaf and rub on the skin.

Caterpillars with urticating hairs. Updated: June 2010.
The caterpillar’s hairs will break and embed into your skin as you brush against them or touch them. The effect on humans ranges from mild irritation to dermatitis. Nothing to be alarmed but do take precaution like wearing long sleeves shirt while bushwacking or use gloves while handling them.

It contains cotton gauze and surgical tape to cover wounds. I found the disposable chlorhexidine wash solution very useful to clean wounds. Another plus about chlorhexidine wash is they are less painful when applied compared to water or alcohol swabs. Bought them from Guardian pharmacy.

Here is a closeup.

The little plasters are good for blisters before walking becomes nearly impossible.

Muscle cramps are common due to over-exertion. Get a tube of “Tiger Balm Muscle Rub”.

High heels

Pulau Ubin can get very hot, so wear something light and avoid black colored clothing which absorb heat. There are other preferences though.

Wearing a US$200 hiking skirt for men.

All covered up

Another thing most visitors are not prepared for are mosquitoes and sandflies bites. We would often see them scratching themselves. Its too late by then and the itching going to last for days. Get a can of spray repellent. My favorite is “Off!” brand. It contains DEET that keep the most determined mosquitoes and the dreaded sandflies away. Costs around $7.50 to $8.50. The provision shops in Ubin sell them also.

Sunblock lotion. Except for eastern parts of Ubin towards Ketam cycling trail, there are plenty of tree cover so sunblock is optional or wear a hat instead.

Make sure you bring along a first aid kit. Especially when in a group with inexperienced members. Most accidents result in minor skin abrasions. A bottle of mineral water helps wash away dirt and use some cotton gauze and bandages to cover wounds.

Water is important too. Dehydration from sweating can result in painful muscle cramps. Make sure you bring bottled water as the water at NPark public toilets cannot be drank as its not treated.

Finally, bring some snacks along and some disposable rain coat in event of a sudden downpour. You can buy these at Ubin provision shops.

Caught in the rain

Wearing flip flops and cycling with with terrified kid