During spring and summer people are more active then ever. So are the numerous buzzing insects of the stinging variety. Inevitably, we are going to bump into one another as we go about our summertime fun. The sting of a bee is actually a serious problem for many people due to allergic reactions. Bee stings are painful, and can ruin an otherwise great summer day. Here are several steps you can take to lower the risk of being stung.
1. Avoid bright colors. Believe it or not, bees do see contrast and it can incite them into action. Lower your risk of bee sting by wearing white, or light colored clothing.
2. Keep those shoes on your feet. The largest number of bee stings happen because of bare feet during the summertime. Just wearing shoes can lower your risk of bee sting dramatically.
3. Button all buttons. Loose fitting material can accidentally entrap flying insects and a bee in the shirt is no fun at all.
4. Learn the locating basics:
- Wasps, Honeybees, and Hornets generally nest above ground.
- Yellow Jackets build nests underground.
5. When working around your yard, keep an open eye for any bees on the property. Nests can easily be hidden and out of sight. Lower your risk of bee sting by seeing them before they see you.
6. If you know of a nest on your property, avoid the area until you have it removed. Bees respond to movement, and will attack if they feel threatened. Contact a professional if you locate a large nest.
7. Leave the perfume at home. Bees are attracted to any strong aroma. Perfume can irritate them into stinging. Even sweat and body odor can incite unwanted attraction from bees.
8. Keep sugar under wraps. Bees love sugar, and will investigate any uncovered sugary substance. Soft drinks, candy, and any other form of sugar must stay covered to lower your risk of bee sting. Many people are stung in the mouth or throat due to not covering their soft drink.
9. If you are around bees in any way, remain calm and do not swing at them. Keep your voice low, and quickly remove yourself from the area. If you can not avoid swatting at them, move to another location for your summertime fun.
10. If confronted with a swarm of bees, run away as fast as possible. Generally, bees will only pursue you until they feel you are away from what they are protecting. The distance varies with the various species.
Lowering the risk of being stung by a bee is largely just common sense. As you go about your summertime fun, be aware of your surroundings. Most bee stings happen when we intentionally, or unintentionally enter their territory. If you are stung by a bee, make sure to follow first aid steps for bee stings and be aware of allergic reactions.
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