Sting Prevention for your Backyard

Absolutely no one likes to get stung by a bee, whether it is a yellow jacket, a hornet, or a wasp. Unfortunately, by the mere fact that human and bees need to coexist outdoors during the spring and summer months means that precautions need to be taken in order to avoid painful and sometimes fatal stings by these insects. Since bees are an integral part of our ecosystem, it is a good idea in general to allow these insects to do their job. However, if a nest or swarm seems to be invading your entertaining space or children's playspace in your yard, you may want to take action. Here are a few ways you can reduce your risk of getting stung or having a large nest being constructed in your yard.

• Be Careful with Food - Since many varieties of bees tend to be attracted to food, it is a good idea to cover food items when you are having a backyard BBQ. Better yet, keep food items inside and serve from there. Soda cans are notorious for attracting bees and many a person has been stung when they take a sip while a bee has, unbeknownst to them, crawled inside their drink. Use cups or mugs with covers whenever possible. Food sources for bees can come in many forms, such as the grease and food drippings from your grill. Be sure to clean up these spills after each use to deter bees from visiting your grill area all summer.
• Be Careful with Fragrances - Avoid fragrances, including hair spray, scented soaps, lotions, and oils, as they can attract bees.
• Be Careful with Clothing Choices - Avoid really bright clothing, and especially clothing that has a floral pattern, as you may look like a new pollination location.
• Wear Shoes - Since some varieties of stinging insects tend to nest in the ground, such as yellow jackets, it is a good idea to wear shoes to avoid stepping on a bee. A stinger in the foot can be painful for hours!
• Be Aware of Trash Location - If you plan to entertain outdoors, keep your trash bins away from the area. Bees love to scavenge, and your garbage barrels are the perfect place for that!

Do you have stinging insect nests in your backyard that you need removed? Call Pest-End Exterminators at 1-800-287-4321, 603-382-9644, or 978-794-4321.