As summer goes on, stinging insects, including wasps, hornets and yellowjackets, enter into their most active season. B&B Pest Control reminds those planning to spend time outdoors and soak up the warm weather that stinging insects remain a threat even as the days get shorter.
Many people think that stinging insects are most active in June and July, but stinging insects are actually most aggressive in the early fall as they forage for food that will sustain them during the winter. Come Fall, stinging insect colonies in our area can contain upwards of 4,000 members, leading to an increased number of stings.
The National Pest Management Association (NPMA), a non-profit organization committed to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests, reports that more than 500,000 people are sent to the emergency room every year due to insect stings. Most people experience localized swelling and pain from an insect sting, but about 3 percent of the population also develops a severe allergic reaction.
B&B Pest Control encourages people to be on the lookout for stinging insects when attending end-of-summer picnics or completing home maintenance projects around the yard this season. Anyone who encounters a stinging insect flying nearby should remain calm, cool and collected. Swatting at a yellowjacket or wasp can actually provoke an attack.
As funny as it sounds, the best thing to do if a stinging insect is flying in close proximity is to blow on it, so it does not feel threatened. Of course, if a nest is found on the property, make sure to contact a licensed pest professional for assistance in removing it.
For more information on stinging insects, please visit www.bbpest.com
