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BEE wise, know the risks
Posted 9/11/2012 Updated 9/11/2012
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Commentary by Rod Krause
5th Bomb Wing Ground Safety
9/11/2012 - MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Yellow jackets, hornets, wasps, bees of all types come out to play in the summer but they also pose a danger as the temperatures begin to drop in the fall. Hornets, wasps, and bees in particular, will seek the warmth of your home in the hopes of prolonging their own lives. In the spring and summer, they become active in their search for food. Most stinging insects also start to build their nests as soon as possible too.
For most people, bites and stings cause uncomfortable pain, swelling and localized redness. But, for more than two million Americans who are allergic to insect bites, reactions are more serious.
If you have any of these symptoms after an insect bite, see your doctor immediately:
· Wheezing or difficulty breathing
· Fainting or dizziness
· Hives or skin rash
· Abdominal pain, nausea or cramps
If you are severely allergic, your doctor might give you a special kit with shots and medicine your can inject yourself with after a sting. Allergists also offer treatment to help make you immune to the effects of stings. Your best bet is to avoid insects and their habitats; however, we don't always have that luxury.
Yellow jackets often live in the ground and inside walls. Hornets and wasps nest in bushes, trees, and under the eaves of buildings. Common honey bees have been known to swarm, which means they are on the lookout for a new home. Beware of such areas, and never walk barefoot in the grass. Also, insects love the smell of fragrances from cosmetics and soaps. They also flock to exposed food at picnics, Bar-B-Qs, and open garbage containers and open soda or beer cans and bottles.
Here are three quick sting avoidance and first aid tips:
· Light-colored clothing attracts fewer bees than does dark clothing.
· Scrape the stinger out from the stung area; never squeeze or pull out the stinger.
· Those with severe allergic reactions to insect stings should consider wearing a medical bracelet and carrying an insect allergy kit where appropriate.
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