What To Do and Not To Do With Stinging Insects

Being close to a stinging insect is not a scenario we want to be in. Still, knowing how to act when you're near bees, wasps, bumblebees, or other insects makes dealing with them much easier. While they're a key part of the cycle of life, their presence makes us uneasy, especially when finding them at your home. 

So, knowing how to deal with stinging insects is life-saving (or at least nerve-saving.) Let's see what to do and what not to do in case of an unwanted encounter with such an insect.

Do Remain Calm

Stay calm and still, and don't make sudden movements when close to swarms. Even in the case of one insect, you shouldn't provoke it to avoid stinging. Try to be calm and don't panic so you can have time to move away slowly.

Do Wear Protective Clothes

Wear long sleeves and pants when staying outside near flowers and woods. Cover your head with a hat, too, and choose closed-toe shoes. That way, you minimize the exposed skin, lowering the risk of being stung by a bee, wasp, or other stinging insect. 

Do Use Insect Repellent

Apply insect repellent if you plan to spend time outdoors. Even if you're an experienced beekeeper, hiker, or adventurer, insect repellent must be in your backpack. Some insects will sting everything on their way, so it's best to be prepared for that. 

Do Seal Home Entry Points

Stinging insects are an indoor risk too. Wasps can easily find a crack and make a nest there. It's the same with hornets and bees, who will do anything to protect themselves, even when they're intruders. So, inspect your home and seal every critical entry poin, if you don't want uninvited flying guests. 

Do Contact Pest Control

If things get out of control, you must hire a professional company to remove the nests safely. Don't try to eliminate the intruders yourself, as pest control professionals know how to deal with such situations. 

Don't Wear Strong Fragrances

Scented lotions and fragrant oils in perfumes attract insects. Avoid wearing strong fragrances when spending extended time outdoors. Use refreshing body mists, as their fragrant oil concentration is much lower.

Don't Leave Food Out

Uncovered food and drinks attract stinging insects. Be careful with sweet drinks, juices, and fruit while outside. Always check the glass or bottle before taking a sip because a stinging insect may hide there. Always cover the jars, plates of food, and cups to prevent insect stings. 

Don't Disturb Nests

Never remove or disturb a stinging insect nest on your own, using sticks or bare hands. It's dangerous and even life-threatening. As we said, professionals should handle nests, so it's not worth the risk. 

Don't Ignore the Stings and Bites

If stung, monitor your condition and act immediately in case of swelling, dizziness, or extreme itching. Don't remove the sting yourself, because breaking it may result in inflammation. Seek medical help to manage the situation better.

Don't Wear Loose Clothes Outside

While loose clothes help us cool down in summer, they don't protect our skin enough. Don't wear them when in nature, especially near grass, flowers, woods, or rivers. It's completely safe to wear such clothes in urban areas, as the risk of stinging is much lower around the concrete surfaces. 

Bottom Line

Stinging insects are a life-threatening risk for many. Consider the tips we shared with you to protect yourself, just in case. So, feel free to contact us and learn more about how to deal with stinging insects, what products to use, and what's the safest way to protect yourself from stings and reactions,