Wasp and Bee Awareness

There are multiple sting insects that are active during the warmer months, but bees and wasps are the ones who often cause problems at a lot of properties. Bees are incredibly important insects that pollinate our plants and only sting to save their hive or when they feel threatened (like being swatted at or stepped on) and seldom sting when they are foraging. On the other hand, a large number of bees or wasps foraging in one area may indicate a colony is nearby.  Nests and hives may be found in a wide variety of locations such as in trees, pipes, holes, behind shutters, under roof eaves or on equipment such as ladders.

Behaviour of colonies may vary over time, especially with changes in season, becoming more aggressive and easily agitated in the late summer and fall. There are some small things you can do to prevent them from nesting on your property:

• Remove food sources - remove ripe or rotten fruits and berries around your garden. Move bird feeders away from your home and make sure no pet food is left outside.
• Patch up cracks- seal off all entry points for wasps and bees, including all tiny cracks around the edges of siding and where power lines enter the house.  
• Place wasp-repelling plants around your property - consider placing wasp deterrent plants such as mint, basil, wormwood, marigold, pennyroyal, and geranium for natural protection. 
• Check for nests - it is important to locate nests before they develop and grow larger. Regularly check sheds, garages, wall cavities and trees in your garden for newly developed nests.
• Seal garbage cans and cover compost piles. Wasps aren’t picky and love old rotting food just as much as freshly cooked meals. In warm months wasps crave protein-rich foods, and in the colder months, wasps become sweet junkies, attracted to every sugary substance.

If you do find a bee or wasp nest on your property, seek professional help to get these removed. Never attempt to remove them yourself, as they can be dangerous.

If you do find a bee or wasp nest on your property, seek professional help to get these removed. Never attempt to remove them yourself, as they can be dangerous.

Wasp and Bee sting first aid

Now we know how to prevent bee and wasp nests on our properties, we need to ensure we know what to do in case of a bee or wasp sting. Nobody wants to be stung by a bee or wasp, but if you or a family member happen to be stung, knowing what to look for is important.

Follow the below steps:

• Remove the stinger as soon as possible. Tweezers are the preferred tool but fingernails or the edge of a credit card also work.
• Clean the sting site with soap and water.
• Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain
• Take ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling.
• Elevate the affected limb if the sting site is on an arm or leg.

If your friend, yourself or a family member experiences any of the following symptoms after being stung by a wasp or a bee, seek medical assistance immediately:

• Hives, consistent itching
• Flushed or pale skin
• Breathing difficulties, including a swollen tongue and throat
• A rapid or weak pulse
• Dizziness and fainting
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
• Loss of consciousness

Still worried about wasps and bees on your property?

The best way to prevent a wasp or bee sting is to control their numbers with professional pest control. If you have or suspect a pest problem or would like to know more about protecting your home from pests, get in contact with Rentokil today. Your safety is important to us.